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Ta Pedia Tis Polis City Greeks

America's Premier Greek Band

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Top Greek Wedding Songs for Your NYC Celebration
Top Greek Wedding Songs for Your NYC Celebration
Planning a Greek wedding in the heart of New York City? From the vibrant bouzouki riffs to heartfelt lyrics that bring generations together, music is at the soul of every Greek celebration. Whether you're planning a traditional wedding, a modern fusion, or something in between, the right music will elevate your night and keep the […]
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Authentic Greek musicians playing Nisiotika at a private event in NYC
How to Hire the Right Greek Band for Your Wedding or Event in NYC
Music is the heart of any Greek wedding celebration. From the emotional first dance to the circle dances with all your relatives, the right band will set the tone for an unforgettable night. Choosing a Greek wedding band is about finding musicians who can deliver both the traditional melodies that warm the heart and the […]
READ MORE
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What is Rebetiko? Discover the Roots of Greek Blues
Introduction Rebetiko is often called the Greek blues, a musical genre born in the early 20th century among the urban working class in Greece. It emerged from the hashish dens and rebetes (outcast musicians) of port cities like Smyrna and Piraeus, where refugees and locals blended Greek folk, Ottoman, and Balkan influences. The songs express […]
READ MORE
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Dance the Night Away: Popular Greek Dance Styles for Weddings and Parties
Introduction No Greek celebration is complete without lots of dancing. From big weddings to casual tavern nights, dancing brings everyone together and creates unforgettable memories. Don’t worry if you or some guests don’t know the steps – Greek dances are often simple to learn on the spot, and locals will happily guide you. Here are […]
READ MORE
Top Greek Wedding Songs for Your NYC Celebration
Top Greek Wedding Songs for Your NYC Celebration
Planning a Greek wedding in the heart of New York City? From the vibrant bouzouki riffs to heartfelt lyrics that bring generations together, music is at the soul of every Greek celebration. Whether you're planning a traditional wedding, a modern fusion, or something in between, the right music will elevate your night and keep the […]
Read More
Authentic Greek musicians playing Nisiotika at a private event in NYC
How to Hire the Right Greek Band for Your Wedding or Event in NYC
Music is the heart of any Greek wedding celebration. From the emotional first dance to the circle dances with all your relatives, the right band will set the tone for an unforgettable night. Choosing a Greek wedding band is about finding musicians who can deliver both the traditional melodies that warm the heart and the […]
Read More
no image
What is Rebetiko? Discover the Roots of Greek Blues
Introduction Rebetiko is often called the Greek blues, a musical genre born in the early 20th century among the urban working class in Greece. It emerged from the hashish dens and rebetes (outcast musicians) of port cities like Smyrna and Piraeus, where refugees and locals blended Greek folk, Ottoman, and Balkan influences. The songs express […]
Read More
no image
Dance the Night Away: Popular Greek Dance Styles for Weddings and Parties
Introduction No Greek celebration is complete without lots of dancing. From big weddings to casual tavern nights, dancing brings everyone together and creates unforgettable memories. Don’t worry if you or some guests don’t know the steps – Greek dances are often simple to learn on the spot, and locals will happily guide you. Here are […]
Read More

Tommy Kavounidis

Born and raised in Queens, New York, Tommy Kavounidis is a Greek-American musician, guitarist, and bouzouki teacher known for blending traditional sounds with modern expression. He discovered his passion for the bouzouki at age 13, captivated by its rich tone and deep cultural roots. What began as a personal journey quickly grew into a lifelong dedication to Greek music, performance, and education.

In addition to mastering the bouzouki, Tommy studied guitar and laouto, developing a versatile playing style influenced by Rebetiko, Laiko, Rock, Classical, and Jazz. He later earned a degree in Guitar Performance with a minor in Music Production and Engineering from Berklee College of Music, gaining tools to integrate both traditional Greek music and modern production techniques into his work.

As the founder and bandleader of Ta Pedia Tis Polis, a leading Rebetiko band in NYC, Tommy performs across venues and festivals, delivering immersive, high-energy sets that celebrate the spirit of urban Greek folk music. The group has become one of the most sought-after Greek music ensembles in New York, offering an authentic sound steeped in cultural storytelling.

Offstage, Tommy is a dedicated bouzouki instructor in Queens, offering private lessons and group classes through his NYC Bouzouki School. His lessons serve students of all ages and skill levels — from beginners to experienced musicians — with a focus on Rebetiko, Laiko, and other genres of Greek traditional music. His teaching blends hands-on technique with historical context, giving students a deep connection to the music they play.

Beyond education and performance, Tommy works professionally in music production, audio engineering, DJing, and event planning, offering technical expertise for live shows, weddings, and cultural festivals. Whether providing Greek bouzouki lessons in NYC, producing live events, or organizing performances through Rebetiko News, Tommy remains committed to preserving and evolving the vibrant legacy of Greek music in the diaspora.