Australia’s Minister Alex Hawke, a proud son of the Greek-Australian diaspora himself, extended his condolences to the Greek-Australian community and the Greek community around the world on the passing of composer Mikis Theodorakis.
“As Greece’s most illustrious music composer, Mr Theodorakis wrote classical and popular pieces with wonderful melodies, contagious dance rhythms and the ever‐present unique sound of the Greek bouzouki lute. Mr Theodorakis leaves behind a rich legacy of wonderful art, service and a resounding passion for justice and freedom,” he wrote.
“Having produced a staggering number of musical works, encompassing both symphonic music and Greek folk music, from which he drew most of his inspiration, has made his sound instantly recognisable. He gained worldwide recognition with iconic music scores he composed for films including Zorba the Greek (1964) and Serpico (1973). Mr Theodorakis lived a full life transforming his experiences into music, becoming part of the musical history of the Greek nation and the world himself. Mr Theodorakis and his music transcends and his impact and influence on the Greek-Australian community cannot be measured. Vale Mikis Theodorakis.”