Mikis Theodorakis was born on July 29th, 1925 on the Greek island of Chios. He studied at the Athens Conservatory and the Conservatoire of Paris.
His marvellous works based on the greatest Greek and world poetry include  "Axion Esti" and "Romiossini". These and so many others of his works have given dignity to Greek music. While developing his concept of metasymphonic music, Theodorakis soon became an internationally renowned musical genius.

Mikis Theodorakis always combined an exceptional artistic talent with an extraordinary deep love of his country, and he is dedicated to heightening international awareness on human rights, of environmental issues and of peace. Mikis Theodorakis is without a doubt Greece's greatest living composer.

Short list of Mikis Theodorakis works 
'Greek Carnival', 'Elektra' and 'Zorba', four operas: 'Kostas Karyotakis', 'Medea', 'Elektra' and 'Antigone', the Olympic anthem 'Canto Olympico', the film scores for 'Phaedra', 'Z', 'Elektra', 'Zorba the Greek'; 'Serpico' and 'Iphigenia'.

Check that you understand what these words mean in this document
Marvellous: extremely good.
Dignity: calm, serious and controlled behaviour that makes people respect one.
Renowned: famous.
Genius: a person who has exceptional intellectual ability and originality.
Exceptional artistic talent: much greater artistic talent than usual.
Extraordinary: very special.
Heightening: to make or become greater or brighter.