His Life,
His Music

John Balamos - family

His Family and Friends

In musical improvisation as in life, there are no wrong notes, just many interesting passages and personal exchanges along the way

— John Balamos

Family & Friends

John was the son of Greek immigrants, Pete and Dionecia Balamos. He was born on November 19, 1927, His passions in life were simple: music, family, friends and New York City (NYC).

His sister Bess Greanias shared a story about John’s earliest request for a piano: “It was the post-depression era and our Father told him the family couldn’t afford one. However, the next day a piano was mysteriously delivered to our home.” Balamos trained in the classics and had a special passion for music of Johann Sebastian Bach.

“John had a way of encouraging people to reach their potential whether in music or in life,” says his brother Dino Balamos. He scoffed when he heard a friend lamenting his hectic lifestyle, “Once I’m done with this project, I’ll be out of the woods...” Balamos responded with a smile, “In case you haven’t learned it yet - you’re never out of ‘the woods’...‘the woods’ is it!”

Special recognition to Dionecia & Pete Balamos, Bess B. & Basil Greanias, Dino & Mary Balamos, Helen Colovos Grevas, Georgia & Pete Nicholas, Gladys & Dino Benos, Christine Kareotes and their families for a lifetime of love, encouragement and support for the talents of their son, nephew, brother, cousin and our uncle John Balamos.

If you have a story or photo you’d like added here, get in touch on the Contact page.

Added on Feb 26 2015

Added on Aug 8 2014
Special Thanks to Stephanie Greanias, Niece of John Balamos, for creating this memorial treasure.

Added on June 9 2014

Added on June 8 2014
Special Thanks to Stephanie Greanias, Niece of John Balamos, for creating this memorial treasure.

Added on June 8 2014
Special Thanks to Stephanie Greanias, Niece of John Balamos, for creating this memorial treasure.