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America's Premier Greek Band NYC | Rebetika, Laika, & Nisiotika Music
Looking for a Greek band in NYC that brings soul, rhythm, and authenticity to your event? Ta Pedia Tis Polis is a collective of passionate musicians rooted in Rebetiko, Laiko, and Nisiotika traditions, performing across New York City and beyond. Based in Queens, we specialize in live Greek music for weddings, festivals, private parties, community celebrations, and cultural events.
Our goal is simple: to keep the spirit of Greek folk music alive in the U.S.—with every bouzouki note, violin cry, and heartfelt lyric. Whether you're planning a Greek wedding in New York, a heritage festival, or a high-energy glendi, we tailor our setlist and vibe to match your crowd and vision.
With deep respect for the music and its roots, Ta Pedia Tis Polis delivers a live experience that’s both timeless and electric—bridging generations, cultures, and dance floors.
Available for:
- Greek Weddings (NYC & Tri-State Area)
- Baptisms
- Cultural Festivals
- Private Parties & Corporate Events
- Greek Nights at Restaurants or Lounges
- Community Organizations & Societies
Let’s make your event unforgettable with live Greek music.
About The Band
Ta Pedia Tis Polis is a dynamic ensemble of musicians dedicated to bringing the rich sounds of Greek traditional and urban folk music to life. Based in New York City, the group specializes in Rebetiko, Laiko, Nisiotika, and other beloved genres of the Greek musical tradition. With a deep respect for the roots of this music and a fresh, heartfelt energy in every performance, Ta Pedia Tis Polis creates a powerful bridge between past and present, homeland and diaspora.
The band was formed at the initiative of Berklee College of Music alumni Tommy Kavounidis (Bouzouki, Tzouras, Baglamas, Laouto and Guitar), who serves as the music director of the program. The group is composed of seasoned performers, each bringing their own musical heritage and virtuosity to the stage:
- Eleni Moniodi – Vocals
- George Vardaros – Violin, Guitar, Vocals
- Nikitas Tampakis – Viola, Baglamas, Keyboard, Vocals
- David Chorowski – Percussion, Oud
- Erikos Vlesmas – Bass
Together, they craft immersive musical experiences that invite audiences to dance, sing, and reminisce. Whether playing for a packed dance hall or an intimate gathering, Ta Pedia Tis Polis delivers performances steeped in authenticity, emotion, and the spirit of community.
Our Mission
Ta Pedia Tis Polis is committed to preserving and revitalizing Greek folk music traditions in the United States. Through live performances, educational initiatives, and community engagement, we aim to cultivate a deeper appreciation for Rebetiko and other genres that reflect the soul of Greek cultural identity. Projects like our public workshops are designed to share this music with new generations and create inclusive spaces where tradition is celebrated, learned, and lived.
Tommy Kavounidis
Bouzouki, Laouto, Guitar, Band Leader
Tommy Kavounidis is the founder and bandleader of Ta Pedia Tis Polis, a Greek live music band based in Astoria, Queens. A Greek American bouzouki player, guitarist, laouto player, and graduate of Berklee College of Music, Tommy blends Rebetiko, Laiko, Nisiotiko, and traditional Greek music with the energy of New York’s live music scene. He leads the band’s sound and musical direction for weddings, baptisms, festivals, Greek Nights, and private events throughout NYC. Outside of performing, Tommy teaches bouzouki through NYC Bouzouki School and works in live sound, event production, and Greek music education.
Tommy Kavounidis
Eleni Moniodi
Vocals
Eleni Greca is a vocalist with Ta Pedia Tis Polis, bringing warmth, elegance, and emotion to the band’s Greek music performances. Her voice adds a beautiful dimension to the group’s repertoire, from classic Laika and Rebetika to island songs, duets, and dance music. Eleni helps create the balance between refined dinner music and high energy Greek celebration, making her an important part of the band’s sound for weddings, baptisms, cultural events, and Greek nights throughout New York. Her presence on stage adds both musicality and authenticity, helping audiences connect with the songs on a personal level.
Eleni Moniodi
George Vardaros
Violin, Guitar, Vocals
George Vardaros is a violinist, guitarist, and vocalist with Ta Pedia Tis Polis, adding a rich melodic voice to the band’s live Greek music sound. His violin playing brings out the color and character of traditional Greek music, from island melodies and dance songs to Rebetiko and Laiko repertoire. George’s versatility allows the band to move smoothly between elegant background music, emotional vocal moments, and energetic dance sets. Whether performing at Greek weddings, festivals, baptisms, or private events, his musicianship helps give Ta Pedia Tis Polis a full, dynamic, and authentic sound rooted in the Greek musical tradition.
George Vardaros
David Chorowski
Percussion, Oud
David Chorowski is a percussionist and oud player with Ta Pedia Tis Polis, bringing rhythm, groove, and Eastern Mediterranean color to the band’s sound. His percussion work supports the many dance styles found in Greek music, including Rebetiko, Laika, Nisiotika, and traditional rhythms from across the Greek world. The oud adds another layer of depth and texture, helping connect the band’s music to the broader musical traditions of the Aegean, Asia Minor, and the Eastern Mediterranean. David’s playing helps shape the energy of each performance, from elegant background music to lively Greek dancing.
David Chorowski
Nikitas Tampakis
Viola, Baglamas, Keyboard, Vocals
Nikitas Tampakis is a multi instrumentalist and vocalist with Ta Pedia Tis Polis, performing on viola, baglamas, keyboard, and vocals. His versatility adds depth, texture, and musical flexibility to the band’s live Greek sound. From the earthy character of the baglamas in Rebetiko songs to the harmonic support of keys and the warmth of strings, Nikitas helps the band bring a wide range of Greek music to life. His musicianship supports everything from intimate dinner settings to full dance floor moments, making him a valuable part of the band’s performances for Greek weddings, baptisms, festivals, and cultural events in NYC.
Nikitas Tampakis
Erikos Vlesmas
Bass
Erikos Vlesmas is the bassist of Ta Pedia Tis Polis, providing the foundation that drives the band’s live Greek music performances. His bass playing brings warmth, groove, and structure to the group’s sound, supporting everything from Rebetiko and Laika to Nisiotika and high energy dance sets. A strong bass line is essential for making Greek music feel alive, especially when the room starts dancing, and Erikos helps keep the band grounded while giving the music momentum. Whether performing at weddings, baptisms, festivals, or Greek nights in New York, his playing helps create a full and powerful live sound.
Erikos Vlesmas
Click each musician to learn more
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WHAT THEY ARE TALKING ABOUT
We hosted this group at our restaurant for a special Live Greek Night on February 7th. Couldn't have been happier. Very professional, very punctual and easy to deal with. They are very talented artists and have a great repertoire. The crowd really enjoyed the music and it was a perfect complement for us. We're looking forward to hosting them again and doing more events soon!
CUSTOMER
Tommy and his band are terrific! Booked them for an event - responsive, flexible, with a great repertoire and lively performance!!! Highly recommend
Teo Canter
CUSTOMER
Ta Pedia Tis Polis did a great job at my Mom's 85th Birthday party. They played a nice selection of Greek music. Everybody at the party enjoyed the band and danced all night. I would definitely hire them for future events!
Anthony Golematis
CUSTOMER
Frequently Asked Questions
We specialize in authentic Greek music, focusing on Rebetiko, Nisiotika, and other traditional styles. Our performances capture the essence of Greek culture, making them perfect for festivals, private events, and celebrations.
Our band has been performing for 2 years, bringing Greek music to New York and beyond. Each of our members is highly experienced, and together we create an unforgettable live experience.
Yes, we are happy to take requests! If there’s a specific song you’d like us to play, let us know in advance. For special requests outside of our repertoire, we may need extra preparation time.
Our primary focus is Greek music, but we can incorporate some international or instrumental pieces depending on the event's needs.
We usually perform for about 3 to 4 hours, with short breaks in between. However, we can adjust the set length depending on the event’s schedule.
We can provide our own sound system and lighting, but if the venue already has professional equipment, we are happy to work with it. Let us know in advance so we can coordinate technical details.
We ideally need a space of at least 12x10 feet. However, we can adjust our setup to fit smaller venues if necessary.
We typically need about 1.5 to 2 hours for setup and soundcheck, and about 45 minutes to pack up after the event.
Yes, we can play recorded Greek music during our breaks to keep the atmosphere going.
Our pricing depends on factors such as the event duration, location, and technical requirements. Let us know your event details, and we’ll provide a customized quote.
Yes, we typically require a deposit to secure the booking. The remaining balance is due on the day of the performance.
We understand that plans can change. We require at least 60 days' notice for cancellations. Deposits may be non-refundable depending on how close to the event the cancellation occurs.
If our schedule allows, we can extend the performance for an additional fee. It’s best to discuss this in advance to ensure availability.
Renowned for our dependability, we’ve never missed an event, never double-book and always come prepared to give our best. However as the band has grown, we've built a dependable roster of musicians who can step up at a moment's notice. All of our musicians play with us regularly throughout the year and are well-versed in our repertoire.
Yes, we are available for out-of-town performances. Travel and accommodation costs would need to be factored into the final pricing.
Yes, we can perform outdoors as long as there is a covered or shaded area for us and our equipment. If needed, we can discuss power and sound setup to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Absolutely! We have experience performing at weddings, baptisms, festivals, and other cultural celebrations.
Yes, most venues require all their vendors to have liability insurance. Ask us any time during your planning process, and we can send that over.
Absolutely! In addition to our live Greek music performances, we offer professional DJ services through NMK Sounds—our in-house DJ who can spin everything from Greek hits to Top 40, house, hip-hop, and more. Whether you want to keep the party going after the live set or just need a DJ for the full event, NMK Sounds has got you covered.
To confirm a booking, we require a signed agreement and a deposit. We’ll also coordinate with you on logistics, such as sound requirements and event schedule, to ensure everything runs smoothly.
We’d love to help promote! We can provide you with photos, videos, and event details to share on social media. Tag us so we can help spread the word!
Our Packages
All packages can be customized to fit your event.
Basic Trio
Perfect for intimate events, private parties, and small gatherings.
Vocals
Bouzouki
Laouto
Guitar
Violin
Quintet
Ideal for small festivals, restaurants, or private events where a little extra presence makes a big impact.
Vocals
Bouzouki
Laouto
Guitar
Keyboard
Violin
Percussion
Full Band Experience
Perfect for weddings, festivals, and large-scale celebrations. Our full 7–8 piece ensemble delivers an unforgettable, high-energy Greek music experience.
Male Vocals
Female Vocals
Bouzouki
Laouto
Guitar
Violin
Clarinet
Keyboard
Viola
Baglama
Oud
Bass
Percussion
Drums
Custom
Assemble your dream lineup with your favorite instruments. Whether you're after a traditional Rebetiko trio or a high-energy dance ensemble, we’ll make it happen.
Vocals
Bouzouki
Laouto
Guitar
Violin
Build your Own
Get in Touch
If you have any questions or comments, please contact us via email or phone, or send us a message using the contact form.
Info@tapediatispolis.com
(347) 927-8010
Queens, New York
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