Lyrics | Artists | Tasos Halkias

Tasos Halkias

Tasos Halkias, born Anastasios Halkias in Ioannina, Greece on January 1, 1914, was a clarinetist known for his contributions to traditional music. At six, he began playing the clarinet after purchasing one from nomadic gypsies. By 17, he joined his brothers' band, Kompania Chalkias, performing in festivals across Epirus and Athens. During World War II, Halkias fought with the Greek resistance. In 1950, he toured Egypt successfully before moving to the United States from 1958 to 1963, where he met Benny Goodman. Upon returning to Greece in 1964, Halkias formed a new family band an...