varka sto gialo by Theodorakis

A Popular Greek song, which most Greeks can sing along,  is for sure “Varka sto Gialo” – (Boat on the shore.)
Dive into the enchanting world of Greek music with this beloved song composed by Mikis Theodorakis. This timeless masterpiece has garnered a special place in the hearts of Greeks and music enthusiasts worldwide. And on top of that, you can also dance a Greek dance on the rhythm of this song

The song “Varka sto Gialo” is a captivating story that deeply touches people’s hearts. It combines feelings of longing, strength, and hope, and tells the tale of a sailor who faces rough seas while missing home. The music composed by Theodorakis and the powerful singing create strong emotions, and the beautiful melody makes it a treasured piece of Greek music that brings comfort and inspiration to those who listen to it.

click here to listen to the song

 

Βάρκα στο γιαλό – Lyrics in Greek

Πέντε πέντε δέκα
δέκα δέκα ανεβαίνω τα σκαλιά
για τα δυό σου μάτια για τις δυό φωτιές
που όταν με κοιτάζουν νοιώθω μαχαιριές.
Βάρκα στο γιαλό, βάρκα στο γιαλό
γλάστρα με ζουμπούλι και βασιλικό.
Πέντε πέντε δέκα
δέκα δέκα θα σου δίνω τα φιλιά
κι όταν σε μεθύσω κι όταν θα σε πιώ
θα σε νανουρίσω με γλυκό σκοπό.
Βάρκα στο γιαλό, βάρκα στο γιαλό
γλάστρα με ζουμπούλι και βασιλικό.
Πέντε πέντε δέκα
δέκα δέκα κατεβαίνω τα σκαλιά
φεύγω για τα ξένα για τη ξενητιά
και μην κλαίς για μένα αγάπη μου γλυκειά.
Βάρκα στο γιαλό, βάρκα στο γιαλό
γλάστρα με ζουμπούλι και βασιλικό.

 

 

Translation in English
Boat by the shore

Five and five makes ten.
Ten by ten I climb up the stairs
for the two eyes of yours, for the two fires
that whenever they see me, I feel knife stabs.
Boat by the shore, boat by the shore,
pot with bluebell and basil.
Five and five makes ten.
Ten by ten I will be giving to you the kisses.
And once I make you drunk and drink you,
I’ll sing you a lullaby for a sweet cause.
Boat by the shore, boat by the shore,
pot with bluebell and basil.
Five and five makes ten.
Ten by ten I climb down the stairs.
I’m leaving overseas, for new worlds
and don’t you cry about me, my sweet darling.
Boat by the shore, boat by the shore,
pot with bluebell and basil.

 

How can we dance on this song? Greek dance Xasaposerviko

 

The Xasaposerviko is a lively  traditional Greek dance, which is very easy to learn. Many Omilo students have the opportunity to learn its steps during the Greek dance lessons that follow the morning language sessions. In this dance, participants form a circle, intertwining their arms and gracefully executing energetic and rhythmic footwork. The Xasaposerviko is celebrated for its lively ambiance, accompanied by joyful music, fostering a strong sense of unity and joy within the participants. You can also follow the same steps demonstrated in the accompanying video, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of this Greek  dance.

 

Theodorakis song

 

 

Click here to watch another video with the same dance,
performed by Omilo-students in different course locations (Nafplion, Syros, Lefkada), and on different songs.

Who is Mikis Theodorakis?

Mikis Theodorakis is a highly esteemed Greek composer, musician, and political figure. Born in 1925, Greece, he is known for his immense contributions to Greek music and culture. Theodorakis’s work covers a wide range of musical genres, from symphonies and ballets to popular songs. His compositions often reflect his deep-rooted passion for social justice and political activism. Notably, Theodorakis played a significant role in the resistance against the military dictatorship in Greece during the 1960s and 1970s, which led to his imprisonment and therefore also the international recognition. His music continues to inspire audiences worldwide, making Mikis Theodorakis a revered figure in Greek and global music history.

In Greece, Theodorakis is particularly known for his popular songs that have become an integral part of the country’s musical heritage. Some of his most popular Greek songs include “Zorba the Greek” (“Sirtaki”), which became an iconic symbol of Greek culture worldwide, and many more.

Theodorakis’ ability to blend traditional Greek elements with modern sounds, along with his emotive melodies and heartfelt lyrics, has made his popular Greek songs cherished and beloved by generations, fostering a strong sense of national pride and cultural identity.

Mikis Theodorakis passed away in 2021. Click here to read more about his life.