Demetris Filippidis was born in Kerkyra, Greece but was raised in Athens since the age of six months. He grew up in the luthier's workshop of his grandfather Kosta and his father Thomas Filippidis, which was located in the Peristeri area of Athens. At the age of eight, Demetris started out his apprenticeship as a third generation craftsman in his small family owned shop. This is when he realized his true love for instrument making and music in general. Demetris spent countless hours alongside his grandfather and father absorbing the techniques of these master craftsmen. Today, he continues the craft and tradition passed down to him, in a small workshop in the Greek immigrant community of Astoria, Queens.

Demetris Filippidis is a master luthier of the Greek bouzouki, baglama, tzoura, mourmourakia and fine steel string acoustic guitars. Every instrument reflects the fine balance of science and art through an experienced third generation veteran instrument maker. To this day, every Filippidis instrument remains 100% handmade by Demetris Filippidis. While mass produced components exist, Demetris believes that the care and attention he brings to each individual piece of wood far surpasses any factory product. He takes full responsibility for his creations and is one of the few remaining luthiers whose passion for his craft, rather than the entrepreneurial motivations, drives him to build day and night.

A major factor in the construction of an instrument that is 'built to last' is the materials selected and how they are combined. Demetris Filippidis prefers to invest a great deal of time in selecting the finest and most aged woods, that even before they are molded and shaped, show great acoustic potential. While he will make any instrument to each players preference, he leans towards the side of less decoration, helping to bring out a richer sound.  The experience and skill of a fine luthier, therefore, is revealed not only in the assembly of an instrument but in the wood selection process. Older European luthiers knew what woods would best blend together and would be able to predetermine and anticipate the tonality from a raw cut of wood. These trade secrets are what separate the amateur from the professional. This is what Demetris Filippidis has learned from his family. This knowledge allows for consistency in the art of instrument making by intent and design rather than through trial and error.