Our Story Cont’d.
HOW THEY MET
Jeannie and Nick first met in 1996 as members of a Rembetika (Greek blues) ensemble in Toronto’s vibrant Yorkville district.
During rehearsals and jam sessions, Niokos gained a deeper understanding of Greek music from Kutsukos’ expertise in ancient Greek modes. With Niokos’ background in Classical and Jazz, the duo began composing music for piano and bouzouki. They were driven by a desire to take the bouzouki beyond its traditional role and blend it into fresh, innovative sounds.
Their collaboration was shaped by rehearsals, composing sessions, and weekly performances. These experiences nurtured a powerful musical bond. Over time, this bond evolved into a lifelong partnership and, ultimately, their marriage in 1999.
A New Musical Chapter
As their musical journey continued, the scope of their compositions deepened. What began as an exploration of piano and bouzouki evolved into a unique fusion that connects the diverse cultural influences that shaped Niokos’s upbringing.
Niokos expanded the ensemble’s sound by incorporating flute and saxophone—two instruments she had played before university. Calling on her university friends to help realize her musical vision, the band Jeannie Niokos and Friends was formed.
This five-piece group performed classic Greek songs and original compositions on the main stages of Southern Ontario’s largest festivals, including Toronto Street Fest, Krinos Foods Taste of the Danforth, and the It’s Your Face, Canada Celebrations.
My Big Fat Greek Wedding
While preparing to record their debut CD, Evolution, Jeannie and Nick—along with their frequent collaborators, H Parea—were invited to perform a traditional wedding song for the iconic wedding scene in the blockbuster film My Big Fat Greek Wedding, marking a pivotal moment in their career.
Nick Kutsukos also made his film debut in My Big Fat Greek Wedding, performing the tracks ‘Secret Garden’ and ‘Dear God’ from Evolution for the memorable Easter scene.