Éntekhno is an 'art-popular song' that sets the words of celebrated Greek poets to dignified orchestral arrangements built around the bouzouki, the instrument of the common people. Grounded in the folk sound of rebetiko and laïkó, it weds classical compositional technique to literature, occupying a unique place that is serious and introspective yet still sung by everyone.

Éntekhno emerged in the late 1950s and 1960s when composers Theodorakis and Hatzidakis sought to elevate the bouzouki, long considered lower-class music, into the realm of art music. Theodorakis set the works of great poets to music, putting artistry into songs people could hum. It also has deep ties to film music.

Notice the contrast between the earthy ring of the bouzouki and the dignified arrangements of strings and chorus. Once you know the lyrics are literary works, the density of word and melody sounds different. The way pieces like the sirtaki gradually accelerate is also a highlight.

The universally known 'Zorba's Dance (Sirtaki)' is the ideal entry point. To move on to éntekhno with vocals, try Theodorakis's 'To Gelasto Paidi.'

Under the military dictatorship that began in 1967, Theodorakis was arrested and imprisoned and his songs were banned. His music became a symbol of resistance, a rare case of politics and art becoming one.