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Composer

 

Nicholas Roubanis was a Greek-American composer and musician who was born on April 29, 1899, in Patras, Greece. He was the son of a wealthy merchant and grew up in a family that valued education and culture. Roubanis showed an early interest in music and began playing the mandolin at a young age. He later learned to play the guitar and the bouzouki, a traditional Greek stringed instrument. In 1916, Roubanis immigrated to the United States and settled in New York City. He continued to pursue his passion for music and began performing in Greek clubs and restaurants. He quickly gained a reputation as a talented musician and composer and was soon hired to write music for Greek films. Roubanis's early compositions were heavily influenced by traditional Greek music, but he also incorporated elements of jazz and other popular styles. His music was characterized by its lively rhythms, intricate melodies, and virtuosic instrumental solos. Some of his most popular early works include "Misirlou," "Kalamatianos," and "Hasapiko." In the 1930s, Roubanis began to gain wider recognition for his music. He formed a band called the "Greek Serenaders" and began performing in nightclubs and theaters across the United States. He also wrote music for several Hollywood films, including "The Big Broadcast of 1938" and "The Story of Vernon and Irene Castle." During World War II, Roubanis served in the United States Army and was stationed in Europe. He continued to write music during his service and even performed for troops in the field. After the war, he returned to the United States and resumed his career as a composer and performer. In the 1950s, Roubanis's music became even more popular, thanks in part to the rise of rock and roll. Many of his compositions were covered by popular artists, including Elvis Presley, who recorded a version of "Misirlou" in 1962. Roubanis continued to write and perform music until his death in 1949. Today, Nicholas Roubanis is remembered as one of the most important composers of Greek music in the 20th century. His music has been performed and recorded by countless artists and continues to be enjoyed by audiences around the world. Some of his most famous works include "Misirlou," "Kalamatianos," and "Hasapiko," which remain popular in Greek communities and beyond.

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