These legends of the Rebetika came to life in the corridors of South Oakleigh College last Thursday. As part of their language studies, students from Year 10, 11 and 12 were able to listen to a talk presented by musician Pantelis Krestas. Mr Krestas, a qualified musician with over twenty years of experience in the field, presented an informative talk on the history, structure and the themes of Rebetika music.

According to the organisers of the event, Year 12 Modern Greek teacher, Dimitra Maniatis and Kathey Zinelis from the Greek Embassy, students were mesmerised by the melodic sounds of ‘Συννεφιασμένη Κυριακή’ and ‘Στου Θωμά To Mαγαζί’. Mr. Krestas’ talk will form the basis of educational units on Rebetika taught at South Oakleigh College and has provided inspiration for students preparing for upcoming exams.

Sophie Stamatelatos, Coordinator of the Master Class Programs at the College stressed the importance of engaging students especially at the initial, creative stage of their learning. “We cannot underestimate the effect of music, dance or film on student learning. When we can tap into a student’s imagination, the learning outcomes are boundless. Students are encouraged to excel when they can explore their ideas in a creative context.”

Students from South Oakleigh College have recently celebrated the success of Eleni Klitsinari and Anastasia Maria Stamoulis who gained level C1 in their Certificate of Attainment of Greek Language, Elisavet Stavrinou who won first prize in a Pontian Competition (2016) and Konstantinos Saltas who ranked in the top 1 per cent for his VCE study score in 2016.

For any further information regarding Greek Language or Accelerated Learning Programs in English, Mathematics or Science please contact School Principal, Helen Koziaris on 95792322 at South Oakleigh College.