Born in Chios, he combined folk music tradition with classical forms, creating a unique sound that defined modern Greek music.
During the dictatorship of the colonels (1967-1974), his music became a symbol of resistance and freedom.

Important projects:
– “Epitaph” (1960) – setting of poems by Yannis Ritsos
– “Axion Esti” (1964) – based on the work of Odysseus Elytis
– “Zorbas” (1964) – music for the film “Alexis Zorbas”
– “Mauthausen” (1965) – oratorio based on the poetry of Iakovos Campanelli
– “The Songs of Struggle” (1974) – collection of resistance songs

Important collaborations:
– Maria Farantouri – the main performer of many of his works
– Giorgos Dalaras – performer of the songs of the race
– Manos Hadjidakis – colleague and friend in the musical field
– Pablo Neruda – set to music “Canto General”

Awards and distinctions:
– Lenin Prize for Peace (1983)
– IMC-UNESCO Music Prize (2005)
– Nomination for Nobel Peace Prize (2000)

Film music:
– “Z” (1969) – directed by Kostas Gavras
– “Serpico” (1973) – directed by Sidney Liumet
– “Iphigenia” (1977) – directed by Michael Cacoyannis
– “Electra” (1962) – directed by Michael Cacoyannis

Theodorakis’ musical legacy remains alive, influencing musicians worldwide and acting as a bridge between tradition and innovation.