Against the backdrop of the stunning Lake Agios Nikolaos and the imposing rocks surrounding it, creating an unparalleled setting, Elena Xydia, known to the general public as the “flying pianist,” enchanted the audience at the concert she gave a few days ago.

The talented pianist managed to skillfully blend classical music with unique creations by Greek and foreign composers, as well as unforgettable cinematic hits.In a beautifully designed concept on a white boat, Elena Xydia played the piano in the middle of Lake Voulismeni, showcasing the landmark in a unique way, while the event was organized by the Municipality of Agios Nikolaos.

“The idea for the concerts was born during the first lockdown of the pandemic. The Acropolis Museum, where I work, was closed, and along with my friend Paschalis Mantis, we were looking for an escape from the routine and confinement. Thus, the inspiration to create something very creative and beautiful was born, and to move the piano to unexpected places, starting from the most difficult: taking the piano to Meteora,” Elena Xydia told cretalive.gr.

She also mentioned that these are difficult endeavors with countless challenges, especially during a period of restricted movement… but they managed to overcome every obstacle.”It was our dream to come to Crete, and when we received the invitation to think of an original event for Agios Nikolaos, I felt we were going to the most beautiful place in Greece!

The hospitality of the municipality was unique, and I would like to publicly thank Mayor Mr. Menegakis and the deputy mayor of culture Mr. Pediaditis of Agios Nikolaos,” says the “flying pianist” about the unique experience she had on our island.With emotion for the audience’s response to the concert, she recalls: “The people of Agios Nikolaos were wonderful and welcomed us with enthusiasm.

The thousands of spectators watched our concert in the lake, creating a unique atmosphere filled with warmth and energy! Their response was touching and inspired us to continue bringing music to such beautiful places. Their presence made the evening unforgettable and magical.Crete is for me a place full of memories and emotions.

Every time I am there, I feel a deep connection with its history and culture. The natural beauty and hospitality of its people fill me with inspiration and gratitude, and Crete is a place where I could live permanently.”From Bank Employee to PianistElena Xydia studied economics and worked in a bank for many years. “However, I always had a love for music and the piano. At some point, I decided to take the big step and dedicate myself to what I truly love, despite the difficulties that exist in Greece for a pianist,” she reveals.

Together with her collaborator and director of the performances, they have done projects in many incredible places, such as Meteora, the waterfalls of Palaiochoria, Skiathos, Lake Plastira, the Delta of Pineios, and the Valley of Tempe. “Each location had its own unique atmosphere and challenges,” she notes.”The place that left a deep impression on me is Tempe. The experience of being in the air for two to three hours, playing the piano, was incredibly intense.

Initially, there was fear, but once that was overcome, the tranquility and beauty of the landscape made me feel a deep connection with the music and the space, something that I think no one in the world has felt, hanging with a piano 50 meters above a river,” she says.Regarding future plans, she emphasizes, “We have many ideas and plans! Our next project will be a surprise, but I can tell you it will be somewhere unexpected.

At the same time, we are continuing for the second year our unique musical performance (a global innovation) where a show combines the magic of music with pioneering technology, where lifelike holograms of musicians appear on stage and take us musically to another dimension.

Two pianists are simultaneously on stage, myself and Elena Xydia, in an epic battle with my own self… you can’t tell the real one from the hologram, no matter how crazy it sounds… The audience experiences an unprecedented experience, where notes become emotions and rhythm turns into ecstasy!”