Frequently Asked Questions

About the Plaka Band and Greek Music

What does Plaka mean?

Take the quiz below and learn a little bit of Greek!




Q: What best describes the meaning of our name, Plaka?

A) Plaque as in dental plaque.

B) The old town of Athens

C) Fun

D) Tiles for paving streets

E) A and D

F) B and C

G) None of the above.


Answers:

A) Is not correct
B) Is sort of correct
C) Is CORRECT
D) Nope
E) Definitely not correct
F) Is CORRECT

“Plaka” means “fun.” This is the overwhelming feeling we have when we play music. After all, if it’s not fun, why do it?

“The Plaka” is the oldest part of the city of Athens. It lies in the area just below the Acropolis and around the old “Agora” or market place.

Much of our music can be described as urban folk music (as opposed to “island music” which has its own sound) and this is the music that was heard in the Plaka district of Athens since the 1920’s.

“Plaka does mean plaque but I’m not sure it also describes dental plaque – I just made that up!

Q: Why did you learn to play the bouzouki?

The accidental rebel

I started playing bouzouki when I was 12 years old. Not being Greek and therefore clueless to what was considered proper in that culture, I was determined to learn and master this amazing instrument only to find out later on that girls don’t play bouzouki. Who knew?

The bouzouki is such a soulful instrument that runs the gamut of being very macho to being very sentimental, playful and exciting. Because of this wide emotional range I think the bouzouki is very well suited for female interpretation.

Q: What does a bouzouki look like?

Q: How can I get a copy of your wonderful CD?

Our CD can be obtained in several different ways. To hear our music as we intend it to be heard, the best option is to order a physical CD. You may order it directly through us --

• Go to PayPal and submit a payment to shermfam@pacbell.net
$15.00 + $2.50 shipping and packaging

• Go to http://cdbaby.com/cd/theplakaband

Our album is available for download as well:
• Download from iTunes or amazon.com

Q: Can I hire The Plaka Band to play at our special event?

We would love to play at your special event! We have an enormous repertoire of Greek music. Please contact us at interhellenic@gmail.com, or shermfam@pacbell.net. We will get back to you as soon as possible.

Q: Where are you performing?

Join our email list and we will contact you when we are performing. We will not sell, swap or spam your information. We promise! Request addition to our email list at shermfam@pacbell.net.


©2013 Panagiotis Contoplianos, Kathy Sherman, All rights reserved.
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The Plaka Band
12795 Viscaino Rd, Los Altos CA 94022
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