Meet Giorgos Tabakis
Giorgos Tabakis stands at the intersection of musical artistry and cultural heritage, bringing a rich and evolving perspective to the teaching of the ancient Greek lyre. With a background deeply rooted in modern music and performance, he offers a unique interpretative approach that balances authenticity with personal expression.
As a member of the International Lyre Society’s teaching faculty, Giorgos shares his expertise through clear, thoughtful instruction, guiding students through the foundational techniques and stylistic nuances of the seven-stringed lyre. His pedagogical style is both structured and intuitive, supporting learners as they discover their own voice on this historic instrument.
Private lessons with Giorgos Tabakis are available through the International Lyre Society, and are open to learners of all levels eager to explore the profound beauty of ancient Greek music.
Giorgos Tabakis
Guitarist | Lyrist | Composer
Giorgos Tabakis is a soloist specializing in the 8-string guitar and the ancient Greek lyre, as well as an active composer based in Athens, Greece. He is a member of the Music From Greece collective.
He is a graduate of the world’s first university program dedicated to the ancient Greek lyre, offered by Democritus University of Thrace. He holds a diploma in seven-string ancient Greek lyre with the highest distinction (Unanimous Excellence & First Prize), under the mentorship of the internationally acclaimed composer, conductor, and scholar Dr. Nikos Xanthoulis.
Tabakis is an instructor and pedagogue at the International Lyre Society, the first official international academy dedicated to the revival and teaching of the ancient Greek lyre.
He collaborates with contemporary composers by recording and performing original modern works for ancient lyre, including multimedia and audiovisual projects.
He has participated in internationally recognized projects, contributing his expertise in ancient Greek string instruments—such as the lyre, barbiton, and kitharis—for major multimedia productions.
His guitar work spans multiple genres and is recognized for pushing the boundaries of guitar music by blending elements of contemporary classical, jazz, and avant-garde styles.
Giorgos performs regularly at festivals and venues across Europe, including Italy, Spain, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Greece.
His dynamic range as a composer and performer extends beyond solo work, including music composed for jazz ensembles, contemporary dance, theater, and visual arts.
His experimental approach has also led him to explore and study various traditional and world instruments, such as the Indian sitar and sarod, the Aboriginal didgeridoo, multi-percussion, and others.