The Music of Zakynthos

The Musical Tradition of Zakynthos: The traditional music of Zakynthos has its roots to the Venetian period, so we can see the western musical influence of the island, especially the influence of the Italians. Opera and operetta were particularly popular on Zakynthos these times. These two kinds of music formed most of Zakynthos music.

The first school of music on Zakynthos was founded in 1815. Another significant attempt was made in 1860 by Marco Battagel, an Italian music professor, and 60 other musicians who established the first Music Association in Greece. A municipal orchestra was also set up. In 1896, the official Chorus of Zakynthos performed during the first Olympic Games held in Greece. Many local music bands and clubs have been set up since then. The Zakynthos Chorus exists till today and makes performances all over Greece and abroad.