Learn an Ancient Music Instrument: The Lyre of Apollo
Overview
Available languages
1 hour
Mobile ticket
Lina Palera (your host in this experience) is a world-renowned lyricist, and she has performed at ancient Greek amphitheaters, museums and international music festivals (such as MusikMesse, Germany). Apart from being an amazing musician, Lina is an equally great tutor with studies and teaching experience in London and Athens. Living for half a decade in England, Lina speaks fluently English, and Greek.
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What To Expect
// While you live, shine. - Seikilos Epitaph Υou will have the chance to hear and play the ancient Greek lyre, a music instrument invented thousands of years ago! How are we going to do that? First, we will take a closer look at the sound and the aesthetics of a reconstructed ancient Greek lyre, learn about the music system of antiquity and play the lyre on the spot! Then, we are going to learn how to play the “Epitaph of Seikilos”, the oldest complete melody (with lyrics) that survives today! You will soon realize that this ancient musical instrument is much simpler to learn than a guitar or most of the other modern instruments, and this is probably why it was used as a teaching tool for almost every young who lived in ancient Greece. A unique (and truly one-of-a-kind) experience that is offered only by SEIKILO Cultural Space! What we will Offer You? An ancient Greek lyre will be provided to each of the participants during this experience. These are one-of-a-kind music instruments, handcrafted by the world-renowned niche brand Luthieros. No need to have any kind of musical education. In case you are a professional musician, this experience can be tailored to your level!
Options
Learn an Ancient Music Instrument: The Lyre of Apollo
What‘s Included
Access to the museum’s exhibition space during the workshop.
An ancient Greek lyre will be provided to each of the participants during this experience.
Private lesson on the ancient Greek lyre and music, by world-renown ancient lyre players.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
19 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Magical and unique!
Barbara C,Jun 2, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This was such a great experience! I’m not a very musical person at all, but within a few minutes of sitting down with my teacher, Lina, I was playing an Ancient Greek-style lyre. Very unique and highly recommended!
Immortal art on your fingertips
Maps58883001663,May 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent opportunity to touch a piece of ancient tradition and feel connection to the past by playing the same music as the people thousands years ago. Very educational look into Greek musical history and the origins of Western music theory. And if you are into music and history, this may prompt you to buy a new instrument that you've never considered before. You've been warned ;)
In Tune with the Music of Ancient Greece
Stephen W,Mar 17, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This Viator offering was not like the typical offerings we see. As music lovers and also afficianados of Greek mythology (but wiith very little musical talent), we couldn't resist signing up for this lyre lesson, and it was everything we hoped it would be. A remarkable and unique experience. The staff, especially the instructor, were terrific and engaging. The collection of ancient instruments was remarkable. They were beautiful. And, most importantly, the lesson was simply wonderful -- even with no musical talent we were able to learn how to hold the lyre and "strum" it, work on basic scale patterns, and appreciate how in so many respects the structure of musical notation has not changed for millenia. As odd as it may seem we could almost feel the connection with ancient Greece. So very happy we signed on for this experience.
Learn the Lyre in 1 hr or less!
Devyn J,Sep 22, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00The experience/lesson was amazing! The instructor was very sweet and while the museum was small -- its filled with a bunch of historically accurate and handmade lyres and instrument. ALL OF WHICH YOU ARE ALLOWED TO PLAY! 10/10 would recommend to any music lover.
Original informative and user-friendly
Herve S,Aug 13, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00An original, friendly and cultural moment as mesmerizing as the sounds of this ancient lyre that you practice step by step on a dense and pleasant hour Thanks to the organizers and Lisa who kindly taught us
Amazing experience!
Celine T,Aug 11, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I did the guided tour and ancient lyre workshop. This museum is perfect for travellers (and even locals) looking for something a bit off the beaten path! First off, they are easily reachable via online form, Whatsapp, and email, and are prompt with their reply. When we got there, Fotis was very knowledgeable and welcoming with our reservations, and Lina was an extremely talented and kind guide. (To be fair, how pleasant your visit it probably depends on what kind of people are with you on the tour/workshop, I've had a small group for both on a Monday morning.) All these factors make this such an intimate experience, and it's awe-inspiring as well watching these instruments, with thousands of years of history, come to life.
Incredible experience and absolutely experiential.
jazzazzaj,Jul 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Learning the history of music in Ancient Greece is important, especially if you can touch and play the musical instruments of that time and create new music!
Amazing lyre workshop | No music background required!
lana563,Jul 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an an amazing hour with a professional musician surrounded by wonderful reconstructed musical instruments in the heart of Thessaloniki. Passion, love into every detail, interactive approach totally adjusted in our questions. A unique experience to feel the sound of the ancient lyre and a highlight during our visit in Greece!
Great, informative, good change up
Elizabeth S,Jun 13, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Really wonderful! Informative and a good change from seeing history, we got to participate! The map address was different to the actual location, make sure you put it in from the confirmation email
Museum of the lyre
Sherpa54730621438,Jun 12, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The staff were amazingly nice and very knowledgeable. The demonstrations were nice and we were able to try some of the instruments.
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