Giannis Koutis belongs to that rare category of musicians who combine the virtuosity of the performer with profound musicological knowledge and an unceasing search for new sonic horizons. A composer, oud player and researcher, he has dedicated his artistic journey to the creative encounter between the musical traditions of the Eastern Mediterranean and contemporary artistic expression.

Rooted in Cyprus yet looking towards a broader geographical and cultural horizon, Koutis has travelled extensively and collaborated with leading musicians from Europe, the Middle East and beyond, shaping a distinctive musical language that transcends borders and categories. His music draws on Byzantine and Ottoman traditions, the musical cultures of the Eastern Mediterranean, improvisation and contemporary composition, while remaining deeply connected to the memory, landscapes and sonic experiences of his homeland.

The Nicosia International Festival invites Giannis Koutis to present his album Words of Silence, in the Cyprus Museum; a work distinguished by its lyricism, subtlety, and contemplative, almost mystic character. In his compositions, silence and sound occupy an equally central role, conveying the same sense of purity and truth, while nostalgic memory functions not as a representation of the past but as a living force of creation. For Koutis, music is not an act of possession but a moment of encounter with what he calls “the invisible face of Inspiration”.

Joining him on stage are two distinguished international musicians: Marios Takoushis on piano and Markus Stockhausen on flugelhorn. Together, they form a remarkable trio that invites audiences on a journey into the deepest layers of memory.

“Whatever pierces our walls and lodges within us is not our possession. It lived before us and will continue to live for ever and ever.”

The Nicosia International Festival 2026 wishes to express its sincere gratitude to the Directorate of the Department of Antiquities for kindly making its premises available for this unique concert.

CREATIVE TEAM

Compositions and Arrangements: Giannis Koutis
Flugelhorn: Markus Stockhausen
Piano: Marios Takoushis

FESTIVAL IDENTITY

CO-ORGANISERS: Nicosia For Art Ltd, Nicosia Municipality
MAIN SPONSOR: Deputy Ministry of Culture, Department of Contemporary Culture
GOLD SPONSORS: VF Foundation, Allwyn
SILVER SPONSOR: PwC
OFFICIAL MEDIA SPONSOR: Phileleftheros Media Group
SUPPORTERS: L’Oréal Paris, French Institute of Cyprus, The Classic Hotel, Ethimo
PARTNER: Press and Information Office
HOSPITALITY SPONSORS: Centrum Hotel, Altius Boutique Hotel
OFFICIAL FESTIVAL CAR: Pilakoutas Group
EXCLUSIVE TICKETING PARTNER: more.com

Ticket Prices

General Admission: €20

Persons with Disabilities PwD enter free of charge with the relevant ID.

For group bookings and tickets for persons with disabilities PwD, please contact the theatre box office directly at +357 22 797 979.