Corfu’s world-renowned philharmonic bands have been formally registered on the National Index of Intangible Cultural Heritage, following a decision by the Greek Minister of Culture and Sports Lina Mendoni.

The heritage of philharmonic bands in Corfu can be traced back to the time of the British protectorate in the 19th century, the United States of the Ionian Islands (1815-1864). The oldest, the Corfu Philharmonic Society (“Palaia”), was founded in 1840, and was the first band to perform the Greek National Anthem, “Hymn to Liberty,” set to music by Nikolaos Chalikiopoulos Mantzaros in 1865.

Since then, the bands have become inextricably linked to the cultural heritage of Corfu, forming up in brightly-colored military uniforms to play on feast days and national holidays throughout the year, including Easter and St Spiridon’s Day, the island’s patron saint, on December 12

In the announcement, Culture Minister Lina Mendoni said: “The traditional practices that compose the separate identity and culture of each region of Greece are recognized by registration on the National Index of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Today, Corfu’s philharmonic bands are registered because they are intertwined with the history and culture of the island.”

“We recognize the important contribution of the Philharmonic Society to the musical education of Corfu and to the strengthening of social ties across the island,” she added.

Today, there are 17 active bands on the island, including the Mantzaros Philharmonic Society, founded in 1890, and the Kapodistrias Association (1980).

Collectively, the philharmonic bands are also responsible for the development of music education on Corfu, each year providing opportunities to hundreds of students free of charge, and cultivating a strong sense of community for people of different ages and social backgrounds. The bands also play an important role in promoting the work of Greek composers to the wider public.

Registration on the National Index ensures the preservation of the island’s rich musical tradition, providing institutional support in line with the UNESCO Convention on Intangible Cultural Heritage.