Why the organ?
In a jazz band the organ has a very unique role. Being a bass player, accompanist and soloist at the same time the organist has complete control over the harmony and melody of the band. Combined with the variety of sounds and rich sound colour the organ can produce, it can either be the protagonist of the band or subtly make the rest of the band sound better from the background. It is a versatile instrument, being used in straight ahead jazz but also pop, funk and rock.
Born in Greece in 1998, Panagiotis began playing the piano and accordion at age 8. After hearing the Hammond B-3 in rock and jazz records, at age 17 he decided to study and play the organ.
He was accepted in the Music Departement of the Ionian University in Corfu, where he studied Jazz performance with the acclaimed jazz pianist and organist George Kontrafouris. Since then he has participated in numerous projects, bands and festivals in Greece and abroad, in a variety of styles.
Being primarily a Hammond organ player, he has accumulated knowledge and experience playing in a variety of styles.
His true passion lies in the tradition of jazz organists such as Jimmy Smith, Dr. Lonnie Smith, Larry Young etc., who he has studied in depth in order to master the techniques and sound of this instrument.
Right now he is collaborating with guitarists based in Greece and abroad such as Konstadinos Stouraitis, Iakovos Simeonidis and Alkis Niilend and is a member of a trio with George Moustakas on guitar and Panagiotis Themas on drums.
