Spyridon Samaras

Full biography Spyridon Samaras

Spyridon Samaras was a Greek composer born on 17 November 1861 in the island of Corfu, Greece. He had a successful career as an opera composer and was part of the generation of composers that helped lay the foundations of modern Greek music. Samaras is best known for his operas, particularly his adaptation of the classic Greek tragedy "Antigone" and his opera "Flora Mirabilis."

However, Samaras is most famous for composing the Olympic Hymn, which he wrote for the first modern Olympic Games in Athens, Greece in 1896. The Olympic Hymn, also known as the Olympic Anthem , is a choral cantata with lyrics written by Greek poet Kostis Palamas. The hymn has been performed at every Olympic Games since 1924 and has become an important symbol of the Olympic movement.

Despite his success, Samaras faced some challenges in his personal life. He suffered from depression and even attempted suicide at one point. He passed away at the age of 55 on 7 April 1917 in Athens, Greece.

Overall, Spyridon Samaras was a highly regarded composer whose works have had a lasting impact on modern Greek music. His composition of the Olympic Hymn is a testament to his immense talent and has had a significant impact on the world of sports as well.