Statement by the Panepirotic Federation of America on the Passing of Petroloukas Halkias
It is with profound sorrow and deep respect that we mourn the passing of Petroloukas Halkias, one of the most iconic figures in Greek traditional music and the living soul of the Epirotic sound.Petro was more than a master of the clarinet—he was the voice of our region. Through every note, he expressed the longing, strength, pain, and beauty of Epirus. His music carried the weight of our history and the spirit of our ancestors. He gave life to the sounds of our mountains, our stone-built villages, our panigyria, and our deepest memories as a people. He reminded us of who we are.But to us, he was not only a cultural treasure. He was also a dear friend of the Panepirotic Federation of America. Over the years, he stood beside us, played for our community, and inspired new generations of Epirotes in the diaspora to remain connected to their roots. His presence was a blessing and his friendship a source of pride.On behalf of the Panepirotic Federation of America, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, his collaborators, and all who were touched by his music. We pledge to carry forward the tradition he so beautifully upheld and to keep his memory alive in our hearts and our celebrations.May his music never fade, and may his memory be eternal.Αιωνία του η μνήμη.
Panepirotic Federation of America
