Tommy Gerjekian began training and studying the Oud at the age of 13. Following in the footsteps of his ancestors, he developed a passion for playing the Oud. Mastering this beautiful instrument was a natural calling for Tommy. Both his father and mother, Berj Gerjekian and Rose Haroutunian come from a long line of Armenian artists. For 20 years in the 1950's and 1960's, "The Gerjekian Band", (Berj's cousin Yervant) played the clarinet at many Armenian functions in Detroit.

On Tommy's mothers side of the family, the Haroutunian's, there is a treasure chest of tales to be told. At all family gatherings you would be sure to hear them play favorite songs from their village of Keghi. Grandpa Armenag was the singer and the leader of the famous Armenian Line Dance. Grandpa's two brothers, Mike and Luis played tamborine and home-made drum. Mike and Louis were the band's driving beat, but truly Rose's mother, Grandma Yeranouhi was the bands star attraction. She played the finest of Armenian music on her Oud. It was Grandma's Oud laying around the house that young Tommy was constantly eyeing. It was the beautiful music that she played on her Oud which inspried Tommy as a young boy to carve his path out with his own musical career.

Tommy was taught by Julliard School of Music Graduate Hachig Kazarian and played with him for over tweny five years as they traveled America. Tommy's love of the Oud and Middle Eastern music, have now taken his talents to a new level. Perfect for any function, the Oud is a natural for Birthdays, Anniversaries, Graduations, Dinner Dances, Weddings and Corporate Functions.

Along with creating music on his Oud, Tommy's other passion is watches. Tommy is the owner of Triple Crown Watch Company in Troy, Michigan. You can visit Tommy and the rest of the Triple Crown staff at 1940 East Maple Rd. in Troy, or online at www.triplecrownwatchcompany.com.