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Discover Vlatos | Village of Peace and Culture

Your Complete Tour Guide

Category: Vlatos Jazz

Experience Vlatos Jazz Festival in western Crete’s peaceful mountain village: Intimate acoustic jazz & world music concerts every Sunday June–September in a candlelit 150-year-old stone church with superb acoustics. Blending international talents & Cretan musicians since 2018—pure, unplugged magic under the stars! Tickets at vlatos.gr/jazz.
  • Get a front row seat for all Vlatos Jazz concerts with the VIP ticket

    Get a front row seat for all Vlatos Jazz concerts with the VIP ticket

    You already know the feeling: the hush in the 150-year-old stone church, candles flickering, the first note floating through perfect acoustics straight to your heart.Now imagine that magic… every single Sunday from June 28 to September 27.
    Front row. Every time. No stress, no saving seats — just you, right there, breathing every chord, every groove, every moment.The 2026 VIP Season Ticket gives you exactly that: 

    Ilias Zoutsos and Spyros Loukos at Vlatos Jazz Festival
    Ilias Zoutsos and Spyros Loukos at Vlatos Jazz Festival with audience
    • Guaranteed front-row seats for all 14 concerts
    • Priority entry & the best sound/view in our legendary venue 
    • A meaningful way to support the cultural society that keeps this unique acoustic jewel alive

    Only €199 for the full season — incredible value for 13 unforgettable evenings.
    Very limited availability — these sell out fast every year.If Vlatos Jazz already feels like home to you, this is how you become part of its inner circle.Claim your VIP pass before they’re gone →
    https://www.vlatos.gr/event/vlatos-jazz-season-ticket/We can’t wait to see you in the front row again #VlatosJazz #VIPPass #FrontRowMagic #AcousticJazzCrete #Summer2026 #CreteHiddenGem

    Book my VIP ticket now

  • Tetraicho’s Swashbuckling Strings: ‘Pirates’ & More Reimagined at Vlatos Jazz 2025

    Tetraicho’s Swashbuckling Strings: ‘Pirates’ & More Reimagined at Vlatos Jazz 2025

    S08.E12 Tetraicho FULL CONCERT VIDEO – Last night’s performance by Tetraicho (Four Sounds) at Vlatos Jazz was a mesmerizing fusion of tradition and whimsy that left the crowd roaring with delight. This quartet—three virtuoso violinists (Maria Manousaki, Michalis Loufardakis and Markos Renieris) and one masterful laouto player (the one and only Kyriakos Stavrianoudakis, Crete’s own rhythm section)—brought raw, unscripted magic to the stage. Remarkably, three members can’t read or write music, yet they rank among the finest talents west of Crete, their intuition and years of communal playing weaving spells no notation could capture.The highlight? Their electrifying reinterpretation of “Pirates of the Caribbean” and manu other popular tunes. Gone was the orchestral bombast; in its place, swirling violin lines evoked crashing waves and swashbuckling chases, the laouto’s earthy twang grounding the frenzy like a salty sea anchor. The violins danced in harmonious chaos—plucked strings mimicking rigging snaps, bowed melodies summoning ghostly ships—building to a crescendo that had the audience on their feet, clapping and cheering wildly.In a cozy jazz venue nestled in Crete’s hills, Tetraicho’s authenticity shone. No scores, just pure expression from souls steeped in island lore. It was joyous, innovative, and utterly unforgettable—a testament to music’s power beyond the page. If you’re near Chania, catch them next time; your ears (and heart) will thank you.

  • Duke Guillaume’s Soulful Sax & Monochrome Magic at Vlatos Jazz 2025

    Duke Guillaume’s Soulful Sax & Monochrome Magic at Vlatos Jazz 2025

    S08.E10 – This video of the Vlatos Jazz event captures a vibrant and soulful performance set against the rustic charm of Vlatos, Crete. The scene opens with the stage bathed in stark monochrome, emphasizing the textures of the instruments and the expressive movements of the musicians. Master saxophonist Duke Guillaume, hailing from Brooklyn, New York, takes center stage, his presence commanding yet warm. His saxophone gleams under the stage lights, its curves and keys popping in the high-contrast visuals, creating a dramatic focal point.The rhythm section is introduced first, setting the tone with a tight, groovy foundation. Stefan Olofsson on piano lays down intricate chords, his fingers dancing across the keys with a crisp clarity that the black-and-white palette accentuates, giving each note a visual weight. Lefteris Papadakis on bass delivers a deep, resonant pulse, his upright bass standing tall in the frame, its dark silhouette grounding the ensemble. Giannis Paterakis on drums adds dynamic flair, his sticks a blur of motion, the high contrast amplifying the energy of his rhythms as cymbals shimmer in sharp white bursts.Duke Guillaume steps forward to lead with one of his original compositions, a piece that blends fresh jazz and soul vibes with a modern edge. The camera captures close-ups of his saxophone, the keys glinting as he weaves intricate melodies, his body swaying with the music’s flow. The high-contrast effect heightens the emotional intensity, casting deep shadows that mirror the soulful depth of his playing. The rhythm section locks in seamlessly, their interplay a visual and sonic dance of light and dark tones.Next, the band shifts to a “golden oldie,” a classic jazz standard that brings a nostalgic warmth to the set. Maria Manousaki joins on violin, her entrance a striking moment as her bow cuts through the air, the strings catching the light in sharp relief. Her playing adds a lyrical, soaring quality, the high contrast emphasizing the delicate yet powerful strokes of her bow. The ensemble’s chemistry is palpable, with the black-and-white aesthetic lending a timeless, almost cinematic quality to the performance, evoking the feel of a classic jazz club.The set closes with an all-time classic, a rousing number that brings the house down. The camera pans across the stage, capturing the musicians’ expressions—Duke’s focused intensity, Stefan’s subtle grin, Lefteris’s steady groove, Giannis’s rhythmic drive, and Maria’s passionate flourishes. The high-contrast visuals amplify the energy, with bright highlights on the instruments and deep shadows creating a moody, immersive atmosphere. The crowd, though not always visible, can be felt through the music’s infectious swing, leaving a lasting impression of a night filled with jazz magic.

  • Meller Family’s Starlit Serenade: Strawberry Tree Tribute at Vlatos Jazz 2025

    Meller Family’s Starlit Serenade: Strawberry Tree Tribute at Vlatos Jazz 2025

    S08.E09 – A Night of Musical Magic Under the Stars — Last night, Vlatos Jazz Summer 2025 delivered an unforgettable evening at the charming Vlatos Jazz venue, nestled in the heart of Crete’s lush landscape. The starlit sky and cool summer breeze set the perfect stage for an extraordinary performance by Paul Meller (guitar and composition), joined by his prodigiously talented children, Maxim Meller on dukduk and bass clarinet, and Elysia Meller on violin. The event drew a vibrant crowd, including a notable contingent from nearby Perivolia, whose presence added a warm, communal spirit to the night. From the outset, Paul Meller’s masterful guitar work anchored the performance with a blend of technical precision and soulful expression. His compositions, both original and reimagined, showcased his deep musicality and ability to weave narratives through sound. The trio’s chemistry was palpable, with Maxim and Elysia bringing youthful virtuosity and emotional depth to the stage, elevating the concert to something truly special. The setlist was a delightful mix of classic and original works. The ensemble’s renditions of Erik Satie’s hauntingly minimalist *Gymnopédies* and Jacques Brel’s emotive *Ne me quitte pas* were breathtaking. Paul’s delicate guitar phrasing intertwined seamlessly with Elysia’s ethereal violin, which danced with a celestial grace, while Maxim’s dukduk and bass clarinet added rich, unexpected textures that grounded the pieces in a fresh, contemporary jazz idiom. Their interpretation honored the originals while infusing them with a modern, improvisational flair that captivated the audience. The highlight of the evening was an original composition by Paul Meller, dedicated to the strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo), a beloved feature of the Vlatos and Perivolia landscape. This piece was a poetic tribute, blending earthy rhythms with soaring melodies that evoked the tree’s vibrant red fruit and evergreen leaves. Maxim’s soulful bass clarinet solo, layered over Elysia’s lyrical violin and Paul’s intricate guitar, painted a vivid sonic portrait of the Cretan countryside. The audience was visibly moved, with many exchanging knowing smiles, as if the music had captured the very essence of their surroundings. The intimate setting of Vlatos Jazz, with its open-air ambiance and rustic charm, amplified the experience. The stars twinkling above seemed to mirror the trio’s sparkling interplay, and the cool night air carried the music effortlessly to every listener. The crowd, including the honored guests from Perivolia, responded with rapturous applause, their enthusiasm a testament to the trio’s ability to connect deeply with their audience. In just under an hour and a half, the Meller family delivered a performance that was both technically dazzling and emotionally resonant. Vlatos Jazz Summer 2025 has set a high bar with this concert, proving once again why this venue remains a gem for music lovers. If last night was any indication, the rest of the season promises to be extraordinary.

  • Kate Dunphy’s Enchanted Accordion Tale with Manousaki & Papadakis at Vlatos Jazz 2025

    Kate Dunphy’s Enchanted Accordion Tale with Manousaki & Papadakis at Vlatos Jazz 2025

    S08.E08.P01 – Last night, under a velvet canopy of stars in the heart of Vlatos, the air thrummed with romance as the renowned accordionist Kate Dunphy from New York took the stage at Vlatos Jazz. Joined by the soulful violin of curator Maria Manousaki and the steady, resonant pulse of Crete’s own Lefteris Papadakis on bass, the trio wove a spell that left the audience breathless, hearts entwined in the warm August night. The setting was pure magic—a rustic outdoor venue cradled by the Cretan hills, where the soft glow of lanterns mingled with the starlight above. As Kate’s accordion breathed its first notes, the crowd hushed, drawn into a world where every melody felt like a whispered love letter. Her fingers danced across the keys, coaxing out famous standards that carried the weight of nostalgia—tunes like “La Vie en Rose” and “Besame Mucho,” each note infused with a longing that seemed to pull the stars closer. Yet it was her original compositions that stole the evening, their haunting beauty unfurling like a secret shared between lovers. Each melody was a story, tender and evocative, painting images of moonlit walks and promises made in quiet moments. Maria Manousaki’s violin was the perfect partner, its strings singing with a passion that matched Kate’s accordion note for note. Maria’s playing was both fiery and delicate, her bow weaving intricate countermelodies that wrapped around Kate’s lead like a warm embrace. There were moments when their eyes met, a silent conversation of artists lost in the music, their chemistry palpable and electric. Lefteris Papadakis anchored the trio with his double bass, his deep, resonant tones grounding the ethereal interplay above. His steady rhythm was the heartbeat of the night, a reminder of love’s quiet constancy beneath its soaring highs. The warm air seemed to carry the music further, wrapping the audience in an intimate cocoon. Couples leaned closer, hands clasped, as the melodies stirred memories of first loves and fleeting glances. Even those alone found themselves swaying, caught in the romance of the moment, as if the music itself was a partner inviting them to dance. The trio’s synergy was effortless, each musician anticipating the others, creating a sound that felt both timeless and deeply personal. As Kate transitioned into one of her own compositions, the mood shifted to something even more profound. The piece began softly, almost hesitant, like the first confession of love, then swelled into a crescendo that felt like the rush of falling headlong into devotion. The audience was transfixed, some with eyes closed, others gazing at the stars, all united by the shared experience of beauty so pure it ached. The night ended too soon, as all perfect moments do, but the final notes lingered in the air, reluctant to fade. Applause erupted, warm and heartfelt, a collective thank you for a performance that felt like a gift. As we wandered back into the night, the music stayed with us, a reminder of love’s ability to connect, to uplift, to make even a fleeting evening feel eternal. Kate Dunphy, Maria Manousaki, and Lefteris Papadakis didn’t just play music—they crafted a love story under the Cretan sky, one we’ll carry in our hearts forever.

  • Ilias Zoutsos’ Lyra & Spyros Loukos’ Piano: Classical Crete Reimagined at Vlatos Jazz 2025

    Ilias Zoutsos’ Lyra & Spyros Loukos’ Piano: Classical Crete Reimagined at Vlatos Jazz 2025

    S08.E07.P02 – Last night, August 10, 2025, the Vlatos Jazz Festival in Crete’s serene village of Vlatos delivered a mesmerizing performance under a glowing full moon. Ilias Zoutsos, a virtuoso of the Cretan Lyra, joined forces with the brilliant pianist Spyros Loukos in a genre-defying set that left the audience spellbound in which he orchestrated famous classical pieces for his lyra. Nestled among olive groves and bathed in a gentle summer breeze, the open-air venue—an ancient stone church—provided an intimate, almost magical backdrop for this sonic journey.Zoutsos, a master of both traditional and innovative soundscapes, wielded his lyra with breathtaking finesse, reimagining classical compositions like Erik Satie’s Gymnopédies with the lyra taking the role of the first violin. The haunting, delicate notes of the lyra floated through the night, blending Satie’s minimalist elegance with a distinctly Cretan soul. Loukos’ piano responded with a crystalline touch, his chords echoing the wistful melancholy of the originals while weaving in subtle jazz flourishes that felt both modern and timeless. The interplay was seamless, each musician amplifying the other’s emotional depth.The duo’s daring crossover peaked with their rendition of an old Cretan song, where Loukos’ piano ingeniously mimicked the rhythmic pulse of a Cretan lute. Zoutsos’ lyra soared, its raw, earthy tones carrying the weight of tradition while dancing with contemporary flair. The fusion was electrifying—a dialogue between past and present that felt like a love letter to Crete’s musical heritage, reimagined through a jazz-classical lens. The audience, a vibrant mix of locals and travelers, sat rapt, their faces illuminated by candlelight and moonlight, swaying to the music’s hypnotic pull.The warm summer night, cooled by a gentle breeze, amplified the intimacy of the performance. Every note seemed to resonate with the surrounding mountains, creating a shared moment of transcendence. Zoutsos and Loukos didn’t just perform; they crafted a sonic tapestry that honored tradition while pushing boundaries. This was Vlatos Jazz at its finest—a night of musical alchemy that lingered long after the final note faded.

  • Blues Jazz Trio Vlatos Jazz Summer 2025

    Blues Jazz Trio Vlatos Jazz Summer 2025

    **Concert Review: Vlatos Jazz – Alexia Katsanevaki’s Enchanting Night of Jazz** On a sultry summer evening at Vlatos Jazz, a packed house basked in the glow of a stellar performance featuring the luminous vocalist Alexia Katsanevaki, backed by the twin Fender Telecasters of Apostolis Leventopoulos and Andy Meixner. The trio delivered a spellbinding set of jazz classics that left the audience buzzing under the warm night sky. Apostolis Leventopoulos and Andy Meixner, both wielding the crisp, twangy tones of their Fender Telecasters, set the stage ablaze with their interplay. Their guitars sang in perfect harmony, blending intricate improvisations with tight, soulful rhythms. The Telecasters’ bright, clean sound added a distinctive edge to the jazz standards, creating a fresh yet nostalgic backdrop that resonated beautifully in the open-air venue. At the heart of the night was Alexia Katsanevaki, whose voice was nothing short of mesmerizing. Smooth as velvet and brimming with emotion, she breathed new life into classics like “Summertime” and “My Funny Valentine.” Her phrasing was impeccable, weaving effortlessly between playful and poignant, drawing the crowd into every lyric as if sharing a secret. Alexia’s stage presence was magnetic, her warmth and grace amplifying the intimacy of the performance. The full house at Vlatos Jazz was captivated from the first note. The warm evening breeze, the clink of glasses, and the soft hum of the crowd created a perfect ambiance, with the trio’s chemistry elevating the experience to something transcendent. The audience swayed, clapped, and cheered, fully immersed in the music’s spell. The night closed with a heartfelt encore of “What a Wonderful World,” Alexia’s voice soaring over the gentle strums of the Telecasters, leaving the crowd teary-eyed and elated. The standing ovation that erupted was as warm as the Cretan night, a fitting tribute to a trio whose artistry made this Vlatos Jazz evening unforgettable.

  • Vlatos Jazz 2025 with the Melos String Quartet

    Vlatos Jazz 2025 with the Melos String Quartet

    The Melos String Quartet’s debut at Vlatos Jazz 2025, led by violinist Maria Manousaki, was a highlight of the festival, delivering a performance that fused classical precision with jazz-infused spontaneity. Described as “pure musical fireworks” on the Vlatos Jazz website, the quartet showcased a vibrant set in the intimate, open-air setting of Vlatos, Crete. Their repertoire blended traditional string quartet works with jazz-inspired arrangements, reflecting Manousaki’s genre-blending vision. The ensemble’s tight interplay and expressive dynamics captivated the audience, with Manousaki’s virtuosic violin leading the charge. The rustic Cretan backdrop amplified the quartet’s warm, melodic sound, making for an unforgettable night that bridged classical and jazz traditions with flair.[](https://www.vlatos.gr/events/)

  • Vlatos Jazz 2025 with Apostolis Leventopoulos and Kostas Mitropoulos

    Vlatos Jazz 2025 with Apostolis Leventopoulos and Kostas Mitropoulos

    Apostolis Leventopoulos and Konstantinos Mitropoulos, two exceptional guitarists, delivered a captivating performance at Vlatos Jazz 2025, as part of a trio with Giorgos Limakis. Their set, described as a “guitar showdown,” blended famous riffs with hidden gems, showcasing their technical prowess and creative synergy. Leventopoulos, known for collaborations with Greece’s jazz elite, brought a soulful, versatile energy, while Mitropoulos, a Gypsy Jazz specialist from Gadjo Dilo, infused the performance with Django Reinhardt-inspired flair. The intimate Vlatos setting amplified their dynamic interplay, creating an unforgettable acoustic jazz experience that thrilled the audience.[](https://www.vlatos.gr/events/)[](https://www.thenationalherald.com/gypsy-jazz-trio-k-mitropoulos-performs-at-theatre-of-the-no-sept-28-oct-19/)

  • Vlatos Jazz Summer 2025 FULL PROGRAM

    Vlatos Jazz Summer 2025 FULL PROGRAM

    Buckle up, jazz freaks, because Vlatos Jazz Summer 2025 is about to launch you into a parallel dimension where Crete’s ancient mountains collide with the wildest sounds this side of the galaxy! We’re talking 13 straight Sundays of sonic chaos in the tiny village of Vlatos, Kissamos – a place so chill it’s basically a portal to another realm. Starting June 29th, three Greek guitar gods (Apostolis Leventopoulos, Giorgios Limakis, and Kostas Mitropoulos) will shred your soul into a million pieces with riffs that could wake the gods of Olympus. Then, on July 6th, the Meλos String Quartet will drag you from the White Mountains to the blue seas with strings that scream like sirens on a jazz-fueled bender.

    But wait – it gets crazier! The Blues Jazz Trio on July 13th will summon ancient spirits with classic tunes so raw, you’ll swear the venue’s stone walls are sweating. Maria Manousaki’s Quartet on July 20th? They’re dropping Behind Closed Doors vibes so hot, the Cretan goats outside will start scat-singing. The Cretan Jazz Trio on July 27th is straight-up time travel – traditional Kissamos instruments meet jazz so unhinged, you’ll think you’re at a 1920s Harlem speakeasy in the middle of a Minoan ruin.

    August goes full supernova: the 3 Keys Trio on the 3rd will have Lefteris Papadakis’ electric bass shaking the earth like a tectonic plate on a mission. Ilias Zoutsos on August 10th is basically a musical alchemist, turning the Cretan Lyra into a jazz weapon of mass reinvention with Spyros Loukos’ piano as his co-conspirator. Then, on the 17th, Kate Dunphy and her Carte Blanche Vintage Quartet teleport straight from a 1930s New York jazz den – harmonica so sultry, the stars above Vlatos will blush.

    Paul Meller & Friends on August 24th? This ex-journalist-turned-blues-wizard is throwing a party so wild, even the olive trees will be dancing. Duke Guilliaume’s Jazz Soul Trio on the 31st will make the mountains weep with New York soul so deep, you’ll forget which continent you’re on. September 7th, Emily Holden’s electric violin will spark lightning storms over Vlatos – her sound is a cosmic explosion of jazz, classical, and pure chaos. TETRAIXO on the 14th is four sounds of madness – Maria Manousaki and her Cretan violin-lute posse will make you feel like you’re surfing a tsunami of melody. And closing it all on September 21st, Giorgos Chachlakis and the Rebetiko crew will rip your heart out with sounds so raw, you’ll be crying into your raki by the encore.

    Every Sunday at 20:30, only 60 seats, €10-15 a pop – local food, drinks, and a free peek at the Vlatos Folklore Museum. Book fast via PayPal at vlatos.gr, or you’ll be stuck listening to the goats bleat instead. Scan the QR code for the full program, and brace yourself – Vlatos Jazz 2025 isn’t just a festival; it’s a jazz-fueled fever dream you’ll never wake up from!