22 July 2009
http://www.apogevmatini.gr/?p=36043
He gripped the European media's attention for months. Everyone was speaking about the boy violinist, and he has been compared to Harry Potter. Some melodical moments on Eurovision's stage were enough to boost the popularity of Alexander Rybak, 23, from Norway. He broke the record with 387 votes, the most in the contest's history. At this period, Alexander Rybak tours Europe, gives concerts and opens festivals, in order to promote his album, bearing the suitable title «Fairytales».
He visited our country for about 24 hours. Although his schedule was extremely tight (5 hours flight delay made things even worse), he had the chance to get a taste. He especially praised the Greek food during his press conference at the house of the Norwegian ambassador. He praised the Greek people too. «It's extremely warm in Greece. Not because of the climate, but of the inhabitants». He expressed his gratitude to the audience and he admitted that he enjoys being popular. «I like it. I feel I get paid to do my hobby.»
Although he is recognizable, he doesn't pretend to be something he isn't. «I try to enjoy it now, because I know that in a few years I will be less popular». He has become an idol for younger people [only?], and many of them go to conservatories. But all he dreams of is making a family and staying in some idyllic place, to compose.
The Norwegian ambassador said: «It's not a secret that most Greeks hoped for a different result in Eurovision. But this was our night!» He also mentioned the Greek roots of Alexander's name, and he added: «you may not be Alexander the Great, but you are still a great Alexander».