Nireas – Panagiotis Vekris writes in ShortStories.gr about his experience as a volunteer at the International Organ Festival “ΑΝΩ” and other cultural events in Syros
I was only ten years old when in 2016 the “ΑΝΩ” International Organ Festival started its special journey. A new musical experience ready to bring the picturesque streets of Ano Syros to life, both melodically and substantially. Although I was too young to understand the dynamics of this organ, the emotions created by its sound were overwhelming. Those who have attended our concerts will surely understand me.
I have been involved in volunteering since the age of six, strange as that may sound. Although I am not a native of Syros by birth – I spent most of my life in Athens – my heart belongs to my island. The island where I spent my summers, Christmas and Easter holidays, but also where I have so much to remember.
My absence from Syros for long periods of time has limited my contact with the island and its events. But not the offers I had for volunteer work at various festivals in my local area.
At the urging of my parents I found myself volunteering at the Loukoumi Festival (2013 and 2014) and the following year at the Syros Jazz Festival.
I remember the first job I was assigned was carrying boxes of loukoumia to the Miaouli square. To those who were making mosaics with them. The red ones were rose, the yellow ones were mastic and the green ones were bergamot. The sweetest first experience of a volunteer.
For the past eight years, along with my school commitments, I have dedicated myself to the ΑΝΩ Festival. In fact, since 2018 I have taken on the role of Transport Coordinator. A quite complex post that requires concentration, organisation and above all patience.
One event that I experienced very strongly, being on the festival team for several years, was the coronavirus season and the increased protection measures that were imposed at that time. It was then that the important decision had to be made whether or not to hold the 4th International Organ Festival.
With the safety of our fellow human beings in mind and observing every measure to avoid the spread of the virus, we collectively decided to continue our work, something that benefited Syros significantly.
For the first time, the “ΑΝΩ” Festival was broadcast live from the Cathedral of St. George (behind closed doors), through the YouTube platform. At the same time, we had placed screens in various outdoor locations around the island, for anyone and everyone who wanted to watch the concert live, even from a distance.
I think the fourth year of “ΑΝΩ” will be unforgettable. It was an unprecedented experience as it required a lot of attention. It was also a very important year for the course of the organization, as we remained active and kept company with all those who – whether far away or close by – wished to be enchanted by the flutes of the oldest organ in Greece.
Find the full article here: https://shortstories.gr/short/stigmes-ethelontismou-sto-festival-ano-sti-syro/