Rebetiko Carnival

Rebetiko Carnival is a London-based charity and community organisation dedicated to Greek rebetiko music, widening access to music and supporting musicians, artists and people who may otherwise have limited opportunities to participate.

The initiative began in 2014, when London-based rebetiko performers invited leading musicians from Greece for a series of concerts. It later developed into a broader charitable programme combining regular performances, a biennial festival, outreach work and educational activities. Since 2016, its projects have included visits to hospitals, hospices, special-needs residences, community centres and prisons, alongside workshops for Greek and non-Greek schools.

Rebetiko Carnival also creates opportunities for direct participation through community choirs, jam sessions, workshops, seminars and support for emerging bands. Its work explores rebetiko and related genres while connecting performance, education, community engagement and the continuing development of Greek musical culture in London.