Maria Farantouri is one of Greece's most celebrated and recognizable singers. She is often called the "voice of Greece" and is considered an international cultural ambassador. Her work, much like that of Fazıl Say, has served as an unofficial form of cultural diplomacy.The Voice of Mikis Theodorakis Farantouri is most famously and inextricably linked to the music of the legendary Greek composer Mikis Theodorakis. She became the definitive interpreter of his major song cycles and political anthems, beginning in the 1960s.Political and Cultural Significance: During the Greek military junta (1967–1974), Theodorakis’s music was banned, and Farantouri became a powerful symbol of resistance. Her voice, characterized by its deep, rich, and contralto quality, carried the emotional weight of freedom and human rights around the world.International Renown: Through performing Theodorakis's music in concert halls globally, she helped introduce modern Greek music and poetry (such as the works of Nobel Laureate George Seferis) to international audiences.Role in Cultural Diplomacy Like the founders of the Cem-Papandreou Award, Farantouri has actively used her art to promote peace and cooperation, particularly with Turkey.Turkish Collaborations: She has a history of successful artistic collaborations with Turkish musicians, most notably the folk and political songwriter Zülfü Livaneli (who has also been associated with the Cem-Papandreou Peace Award). Their joint performances and albums are celebrated examples of how shared musical traditions can build bridges between the two cultures, transcending political hostility.Universal Themes: Her repertoire often focuses on universal themes of justice, peace, love, and humanity, making her music a perfect fit for expressing solidarity and understanding across national boundaries.While her primary focus is music, her career is a powerful demonstration of how art can create a shared cultural space, much like the diplomatic and business efforts recognized by the peace award.