This was one of the most interesting experiences of my life. It’s not every day you get to experience classical guitar music in Greece played by an expert musician. I found Nikos (pictured above) from Airbnb experiences. His family owns a gorgeous old olive press and have decided to repurpose it for small concerts.
Nikos played an eclectic mix of classical guitar music, including traditional Greek guitar, works from famous composers, and some of his own magic. I couldn’t tell if it was the delirium from being on a plane for 12 hours or the magic of the moment, but I was in absolute awe of the music Nikos played for us. As I listened to his incredible craft, I sat there thinking “wow this is exactly the romance I wanted from Greece.”
In addition to his wonderful guitar skills, Nikos was an incredible host and shared his passion for music with us. During an intermission, Nikos and his family offered us wine and charcuterie while we had the chance to ask Nikos about his experience. He shared, “Music must come from the heart. The brain may play a part because of technicalities, but your heart has to be involved or you won’t enjoy it.”
It was apparent from the way Nikos played that his heart was in every note. He paused between notes, allowing them to ring out into the silence, and he took a solitary breath before beginning again, closing his eyes to feel what he was playing.
I spoke to Niko’s father after the concert, and he said, “I’m proud of him. My son is living my dream. Whatever you do in life, you have to love it. You have to find something you can put your heart into.” He proceeded to explain that when he was growing up, people forced themselves into any career that would make money, but “they were never happy.”
It was inspiring to not only see Nikos play an incredible concert, but to hear his and his family’s perspective on his career choice. In 2025, it’s difficult to slow down and try to figure out where you belong and what to put your heart into. But it’s never too late to change your mind, take a different path, or find a new perspective, which is along the lines of what I said back to his father… but I can’t remember exactly! To all my readers, if you’re feeling a little lost, it’s okay to slow down, take a step back, and figure out where your next step will lead you.
As always…
Stay fabulous,
Jenna Leigh Berry
