The book and new digital disc by the author, scholar, and recorder of the Cypriot Musical Tradition, Mr. Michalis Hadjimichael, were presented on Wednesday, January 22, 2024, in the event hall of the Paralimni - Deryneia Town Hall.
In his greeting, the Mayor of Paralimni - Deryneia emphasized the importance of his work, characterizing the publication as a milestone for the preservation, rescue and dissemination of the intangible cultural heritage of Cyprus, underlining that the cultural identity of a people constitutes the backbone of its existence. He referred to Michalis Hadjimichael as a tireless scholar and creator, who has dedicated his life to the promotion and dissemination of the Cypriot musical tradition, bridging the past with the present and opening paths for the future.
The Mayor pointed out that the project “Voice of the People Eftzis Theou” is not only a publication, but also a valuable tool for education, research and cultural memory, which invites readers and listeners to get to know the authentic form of Cypriot tradition. He also emphasized that cultural heritage is not just a relic of the past, but a living force that can inspire and empower communities.
As part of the event, the Mayor announced the organization of a major event next summer in honor of the unforgettable Pelagia Kyriakous, “the master of Cypriot song.” At this event, the Paralimni Municipal Amphitheater will officially receive her name, as a tribute to her contribution to the musical tradition of Cyprus.
In conclusion, he expressed his warm congratulations to Michalis Hadjimichael for his important work, describing the book and the digital disc as a treasure that belongs to everyone. He called on those present to support the continuation of this valuable effort, which constitutes a legacy for future generations.
In the context of the event, a greeting was also delivered by Mr. Christos Economou, President of the Department of Theology of the University of Nicosia, while a biographical analysis and contribution of Michalis Hadjimichael to Cypriot Song was presented by Mr. George Chalkidis, Senior Officer in Retirement. Subsequently, the Strategic Advisor Mr. Nikos Lygeros presented the Structural and Strategic Analysis of the contribution of musicology and philology to the tradition.
The book was presented by Mr. Mimis Sophocleous, Director of the Patticheio Municipal Museum of Historical Archives, while a response was given by the author, scholar, recorder of the Cypriot Musical Tradition, Mr. Michalis Hadjimichael.
The event was presented by Andri Karantoni, followed by an artistic program and reception, offered by the Municipality of Paralimni - Deryneia.
