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.
