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About Orfeas Peridis
Early Life
Orfeas Peridis was born on February 20, 1957, in Athens. Since his parents didn't believe music could provide a stable living, he only attended conservatory at seventeen, later earning a degree in Harmony and classical guitar. He worked various jobs before being hired as a guitarist, performing in traditional taverns and clubs, and even sang for the Greek dubbed version of "The Smurfs." He studied under Kostas Kidoniatis.
Musical Style & Sound
Peridis performs éntekhno and folk, describing himself as a troubadour rather than a songwriter, a singer with a guitar telling modest stories that move between the real and the imaginary. He treats the guitar not just as an instrument but as a source of atmosphere in his storytelling.
Career Rise
At the end of the 1980s, Peridis gave a cassette of his songs to Nikos Papazoglou backstage at a summer concert in Lycabettus, Athens. A month later, Papazoglou responded, wanting to use two of the songs, including "Fevgo," which appeared on his 1990 album "Synerga," marking Peridis's first appearance on record as a songwriter. Peridis released his own debut album, "Ach, Psychi Mou Fantasmeni," in 1993, followed by "Kali Sou Mera An Xypnas" (1996), featuring "Ach Na Se Do" and "Kati Mou Krivis." In 1998, he composed songs for Manolis Lidakis's "O Ilios Tou Genari." His third album, "Gia Pou To Vales Kardia Mou," followed in 1999. In 2000, he composed theatrical music for productions including "Aggela" and "O Peirasmos." In 2001, he released an album exclusively of children's songs, "Sto Proto Proto Petagma," followed by "Ti Tha Pei Zoi" (2003), regarded by many as one of his most mature works. In 2004, "Ap' To Parathyro Koito" featured collaborations with Dionysis Savvopoulos and Sokratis Malamas, and his most recent album, "Kapoion Agapaei Akoma," was released in May 2007.
Diaspora Impact
Peridis's collaborations with major figures across Greek éntekhno and folk, including Nikos Papazoglou, Dionysis Savvopoulos, and Sokratis Malamas, keep him tied to the broader literary songwriting tradition that diaspora audiences associate with Greece's more introspective musical scene. His storytelling-driven, troubadour style gives his catalog particular appeal to listeners drawn to the genre's poetic, narrative side.
FAQ
What genre does Orfeas Peridis perform?
Orfeas Peridis performs éntekhno and folk, describing himself as a troubadour rather than a songwriter, telling modest stories that move between the real and the imaginary.
How did Orfeas Peridis become known as a songwriter?
At the end of the 1980s, he gave a cassette of his songs to Nikos Papazoglou backstage at a summer concert in Lycabettus, Athens. Papazoglou responded a month later wanting to use two songs, including "Fevgo," on his 1990 album "Synerga."
What was Orfeas Peridis' debut album?
He released his own debut album, "Ach, Psychi Mou Fantasmeni," in 1993.
Has Orfeas Peridis composed for children?
Yes. In 2001, he released an album exclusively of children's songs, "Sto Proto Proto Petagma."
Who has Orfeas Peridis collaborated with?
In 2004, his album "Ap' To Parathyro Koito" featured collaborations with Dionysis Savvopoulos and Sokratis Malamas.
Where can I listen to Orfeas Peridis?
You can stream his music on GetGreece Radio, along with other leading voices in Greek éntekhno and folk storytelling.
About
Orfeas Peridis emerged in the 90s as a refreshing voice combining folk sensitivity with witty, melodic songwriting. His debut album is considered one of the best of its decade. In 2025, his acoustic "Living Room" sessions became a digital hit, showcasing his storytelling prowess. By 2026, he remains a beloved figure for those seeking intellectual but accessible Greek music that balances humor with deep romanticism.
Diaspora Impact
A favorite for the Greek-student diaspora in Europe; his music is often played at small cultural gatherings and intimate live venues.
