About us
In 1956, Bill Skimos had a mission—to bring the vibrant sounds of the Balkans to the heart of the Midwest. And so, the Skimos Band was born. Over the years, the band has seen its fair share of talented musicians, with at least 16 different members contributing their musical prowess.
Bill Skimos, the band’s founder, led the group until his retirement in 2019. Today, the band is in good hands with Jim Skimos on keyboard and vocals, Tom Bliznoff on saxophone, trumpet, bouzouki, and vocals, Zoran Popovski on guitar and vocals, Christopher Frank on drums, and Paul Topalov on clarinet and violin.
Specializing in Balkan music, the band’s repertoire includes Macedonian and Greek tunes, as well as music from Serbia and other Balkan countries. Their performances have become a staple at various events, including weddings, dances, picnics, conventions, and christenings.
While their base is in Fort Wayne, Indiana, the Skimos Band is no stranger to hitting the road. They cover a three-hour radius, making their music accessible to audiences across the Midwest, reaching cities such as Cincinnati, Dayton, Columbus, Indianapolis, and more. On occasion, they’ve ventured a bit further, gracing St. Louis, Washington DC, and Salt Lake City with their Balkan melodies.
The Skimos Band’s journey is a testament to the enduring appeal of Balkan music, connecting communities and spreading joy wherever their tunes take them.
Samples of our Music
Tugja Si Bes Krajno
Gajda
The Skimos Band 