Nicholas Athanasatos
Location: Tarpon Springs, Fla.
Occupation: Student of microbiology at the University of South Florida
Connection to Balkan music/dance: I am part of Levendia Greek Folk Dance Group of Saint Nicholas Cathedral in Tarpon Springs, where I co-direct the high school/college group. I also now have six students for Greek folk violin as part of the Greek Folk Music Ministry I started last year.
Number of times at Balkan camp: This was my second year at camp.
Studied at camp: My main focus was on learning a greater repertoire with the violin, as well as increasing my ability to play it. I also branched out with the gajda this year.
Memorable moment at camp: It is highly difficult to choose just one experience, but something that felt different this year was my kafana experience. If one stays up late enough, they are able to experience all the great performances that take place in the kafana, as well as enjoy the fun and relaxed environment. The environment this year especially felt like I was back in a taverna in Greece.
