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“Από τραγούδια λαϊκά έμαθα τα ελληνικά”  means “I learned Greek from folk and popular songs,” and is from lyricist Sotia Tsotou. The quote was popularized by Stelios Kazantzidis in his song ‘Εγώ είμαι πρόσφυγα παιδί’. But is that really possible to learn Greek by listening to music? Yes, listening to music can help learn languages because melody and repetition in music makes it easier to remember words and phrases, but a real language class is necessary to learn grammar.

Ellie Falaris Ganelin shares her story about how she studied her heritage languages by taking Croatian and Modern Greek language lessons as an adult. Improving her heritage language skills has helped her improve her career as a Balkan musician, be able to pass on her heritage cultures to her children better, and to have a stronger connection to her cultures herself.

Understanding the history of the Greek language is important for anyone who is learning Modern Greek. The Greek language used to be divided between a “pure” ancient form (Katharevousa) and the spoken vernacular (Demotic), Greece resolved its diglossia in 1976, adopting Modern Greek. Today, learners of Modern Greek explore not only grammar and vocabulary but also a living history that connects ancient roots with modern expression.

The Greek language’s evolution from Katharevousa to Demotic tells a story of identity and change. Once divided between a “pure” ancient form and the spoken vernacular, Greece resolved its diglossia in 1976, adopting Modern Greek. Today, students taking Modren Greek language classes explore not only grammar and vocabulary but also a living history that connects ancient roots with modern expression.