Born and raised in Queens, New York, Tommy Kavounidis discovered his passion for the bouzouki at the age of 13. Drawn to its rich sound and deep cultural significance, he immersed himself in the instrument, laying the foundation for a lifelong dedication to Greek music. His musical journey quickly expanded beyond the bouzouki as he took up the guitar and laouto, developing a versatile and unique playing style influenced by a variety of genres, including Rebetiko, Rock, Classical, and Jazz.

Tommy’s dedication to music led him to Berklee College of Music, where he earned a degree in Guitar Performance and a minor in Music Production and Engineering. His studies deepened his understanding of both traditional and modern music, giving him the tools to seamlessly blend Greek folk traditions with contemporary techniques.

As the founder and bandleader of Ta Pedia Tis Polis, one of New York’s premier Greek music ensembles, Tommy brings the timeless sounds of Rebetiko and Laiko to life in venues across the city. The band’s performances capture the raw energy and authenticity of Greek urban folk music while incorporating modern production techniques to enhance the live experience.

Beyond performing, Tommy is committed to preserving and sharing Greek music through education. He founded the NYC Bouzouki School, offering private and group lessons to students eager to learn the art of Rebetiko and traditional Greek music. His teaching approach blends technical mastery with cultural storytelling, helping students connect deeply with the music.

In addition to his work as a musician and educator, Tommy is actively involved in music production, live sound, and event organization. He has developed expertise in audio engineering, lighting design, and stage production, ensuring that his performances—and those of others—are both visually and sonically immersive. His technical skills extend to DJing, where he brings a fresh yet authentic Greek musical experience to weddings, festivals, and community events.

Tommy’s passion for Greek music goes beyond the stage. He created Rebetiko News, a platform dedicated to promoting and documenting New York’s Greek music scene, further establishing himself as a key figure in the community. Whether performing, teaching, producing, or documenting, Tommy Kavounidis is dedicated to keeping the spirit of Greek music alive for new generations.