Out of tune with the stereotypes

After an admirable career abroad, multiple-award-winning violinist Katerina Chatzinikolau was recently appointed permanent concertmaster of the Athens State Orchestra - a first in the orchestra's history. Besides being a huge personal success for the musician, this appointment is also a sign of progress for the field of classical music in Greece, which strives to become more inclusive and equitable. "Yes, even in our time, it is uncommon to place a woman in a top permanent position," Chatzinikolau says. "The conservative cliche prevails, especially in the world of classical music, that a man should lead in a demanding position like concertmaster." Born in Gorgopi, a village in Central Macedonia, she left at the age of 12 to study in Dusseldorf and recently returned to her home country after 25 years in Germany. "Many times, I have heard from colleagues, as a compliment, that I play...