1 - 7 of 7 Posts

mastichas09

Active member
It's hard to teach this dance, because its about your kefi and passion. But for those who are completely unsure of where to begin...look at this video I shared

 
  • Like
Reactions: Hash
Zeibekiko is one of the most famous and popular Greek dances. Here are instructions of how to learn and dance the Zeibekiko:
 
  • Like
Reactions: Hash
For me I had to start, way back when I was little, learning the steps. But over time, as I became familiar with the music, the basic steps and structure is still there when I dance it, but worrying about the steps is now replaced with the feeling... of the music, of my mood, etc. I also learn a lot by watching others dance it - each person has his or her own way of dancing it.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Hash
For me I had to start, way back when I was little, learning the steps. But over time, as I became familiar with the music, the basic steps and structure is still there when I dance it, but worrying about the steps is now replaced with the feeling... of the music, of my mood, etc. I also learn a lot by watching others dance it - each person has his or her own way of dancing it.
Lovely way to post this here.Efgharisto .....the same way of Spanish Flamenco!...Full of passion and pride.and feelings as you say!.... Kalley Mera.
 
You're right that there are no steps (you have to feel it inside of you), but there is a very specific beat you have to dance to - as she mentions in the video there are three different versions of the dance. Today the most common version of the dance is danced in a 9/8 pattern.
 
  • Like
Reactions: toniiv and Hash
You're right that there are no steps (you have to feel it inside of you), but there is a very specific beat you have to dance to - as she mentions in the video there are three different versions of the dance. Today the most common version of the dance is danced in a 9/8 pattern.
Very good point, thanks for sharing. I always have a hard time keeping up with the beat. Clapping usually helps!!
 
Very good point, thanks for sharing. I always have a hard time keeping up with the beat. Clapping usually helps!!
you might like this video then. He explains the beat very well


Once you watch that video, watch this video and try to hear the beat. The beat starts at about 10 seconds.

 

Greek Naming Traditions?

I have noticed that in Greece, there are some traditions associated with naming their children. Although some Greek families in the United States have done this, many have seemed to lose the traditions.

Does anyone know what some of these traditions are? I am helping a friend name his upcoming child... Here's some of what I have learned:

1. Firstborn daughter names after maternal grandmother
2. Firstborn son named after paternal grandfather
3. Firstborn son named after father

Those are the ones I have figured out. I don't know what is traditional from Greece and what has just been made up amongst Greeks in the US.

List of Cretan Dances?

I will be attending a Cretan wedding and am curious about the traditional Cretan dances! I know the dances are slightly different and I want to learn some. I don't know the names of the dances so that I can look them up. I did some research, though. Are any of these dances common at these weddings?
  • Pentozali
  • Sousta
  • Siganos
  • Chaniotis
There's a dance the wedding party typically does in Crete. Which dance is that?

What is kefi exactly?

I have always found the concept of kefi to be intriguing, and I would like to learn more about it from those familiar or even vaguely aware of this notion. From what little I understand, kefi seems to embody a unique blend of joy, spirit, and passion, deeply ingrained in Greek culture. It's more than just a word; it's a lifestyle, a form of expression, an unbridled enthusiasm for life.

However, I'm curious to know about the deeper nuances and applications of kefi. How does kefi manifest in day-to-day life, not just in Greece, but wherever one might find joy and enthusiasm? Is it something that can be consciously cultivated, or does it spontaneously bloom in moments of happiness and high spirits? It seems like it really permeates the culture, especially in Greece.

Greek Wedding Traditions Roundup

I am helping someone plan her Greek wedding. I wanted to make a list of all the traditions we need to keep in time for the big day. Did I miss anything?

The Stolisma

The wedding day begins with the ritual of 'Stolisma,' where the bride and groom are prepared separately by their families. It's a moment filled with emotion, songs, and blessings, setting the tone for the day. I had honestly never heard of this. Do people still do it?

The Krevati

An amusing tradition is the 'Krevati' (bed making), where family and friends gather to decorate the couple's future bed with baby items, symbolizing fertility and a happy family life. Money is also often thrown on the bed for good luck and prosperity.

The Crowning (Stefana)

One of the most iconic rituals during the ceremony is the exchange of crowns or 'Stefana.' I believe they need to buy the crowns they want in advance?

Koufeta

No Greek wedding would be complete without 'Koufeta'—sugar-coated almonds given to guests as wedding favors. These bittersweet treats represent the ups and downs of married life and are shared in odd numbers to symbolize indivisibility and shared life.

Where did plate smashing come from?

When Greeks feel happy and are dancing and have a good time, they've been known to smash plates. I've seen it! It's not just a tourist thing - but they don't do it much because I am sure they won't want to smash their expensive dish wear.

I was just at a wedding and they had purchased plates to smash - so basically they were cheap throwaway plates that actually smashed really well. I almost wonder if they were made for the purpose...

It got me thinking - where did this tradition come from? Does anyone know?
Share and discuss Greek traditions related to Greek weddings, christenings, dance & holidays!

WorldwideGreeks.com is a free online forum community where people can discuss Greek food, travel, traditions, history and mythology.
Join Worldwide Greeks here!

JOIN COMMUNITY FOR FREE

LOGIN TO YOUR ACCOUNT
Back
Top