Kelly Thoma Duo

New lyra sounds from Crete

In their duo, lyra virtuoso Kelly Thoma and Chrysanthi Gkika interweave contemporary modal compositions with improvisational freedom and world music depth. Their music draws on ancient sound traditions from the eastern Mediterranean and creates a modern, floating dialogue between the instruments - archaic and timeless at the same time. Virtuosity, poetry and tonal curiosity merge into a captivating listening experience that builds bridges between cultures.

Thoma, a student of the legendary Ross Daly, is regarded as one of the most important voices of the Cretan lyre and can be heard on renowned stages around the world. Chrysanthi Gkika was born in Athens and came into contact with Greek folk music at an early age, specialising in lyra and kemenche playing as well as Greek and Eastern Mediterranean music.

* Chrysanthi Gkika is standing in for Mayu Shviro, who is unfortunately ill, at short notice