Milan Opacich Music

Master luthier crafting stringed musical instruments specializing in tamburitzas, native to Yugoslav heritage. Nationally recognized receiving many awards for his work, Milan, a retired tambura musician, and is now teaching his craft to the next generation. He is also a writer and accomplished author. His articles appear bi-monthly in the the acclaimed SERB WORLD, USA cultural magazine. His book, "Tamburitza America", is a must for any Slav household, documenting the history of the tamburitza in America. Milan builds all tamburitzas, repairs all stringed instruments and is now teaching mandolin, guitar, and tamburitza building.

phone (219) 322-2663 fax (219) 322-3572
Schererville, IN 46375

Available by appointment only

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SERB FEST 2006 DVD Autographed by Milan

posted by milan opacich on Oct 14th, 2008 at 12:39 am

It's been 2 years since Milan has retired from his public performances. You can re-live that weekend captured on a DVD that plays for almost two hours. Enjoy a brief tour of St. Sava Church, a reunion performance of the popular 70's band "Mlada Srbadija", Milan performing with "Drina", and Milan narrating the mini museum display. Milan took the time to personally sign each cover. Purchase the DVD in Goods & Services for Only $20 plus $5 Shipping & Handling (credit cards only), gift wrapped free. You can also call (219) 613-6133 to order by phone (checks only). All proceeds benefit the Serbian Historical Society of St. Sava.

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Tamburitza Prima Winner: Steve & Mary Watson

posted by milan opacich on Sep 4th, 2008 at 4:05 pm

Steve and Mary Watson were the lucky winners of the prima raffle at this year's Serb Fest at St. Sava. Steve and Mary own MINUTEMAN PRESS in Schererville, Indiana. For several years, they have helped print articles and photos at no cost, supporting our research. Congratulations to Steve and Mary! Thanks to everyone who bought a ticket-this raffle directly benefited the Serbian Historical Society, of which Milan is a founding member.

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TAMBURITZA PRIMA RAFFLE, Last One!

posted by milan opacich on Jul 22nd, 2008 at 11:46 pm

This is your last chance to win a hand - crafted Tamburitza Prima, made and donated by Milan Opacich for this year's final Serb Fest Raffle. Koa wood was imported from Hawaii and used for this special last prima. Ticket requests can be mailed to Milan Opacich, 2255 Robinhood Blvd., Schererville, IN 46375, or call Dorothy (219)613-6133 for tickets. Checks can be made to: Serbian Historical Society or St. Sava Church. Perhaps you'll be the lucky winner of this beautiful heirloom. Tickets are $5 Each, or 5 for $20. Pictured below is last year's prima - Milan's still building this year's prima.

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Milan's Workshop

posted by milan opacich on May 28th, 2008 at 1:46 am

Milan spends most of his days in his workshop actually working; either crafting, repairing, or teaching. Don't mind the dust, it's all part of the unique workplace setting. You will see rare and worn tools that have been used over the years to create some of the most beautiful musical instruments ever made. As you look around, every inch of wall and table space is covered with historical photos, posters, or memorabilia. If the walls could talk, they would tell stories of many visitors who have made their way to catch a glimpse of the man in his glory doing the work he loves. Milan's passion for tamburitza music lives in his heart, as well as his commitment to keeping the tradition alive.

Dorothy P.

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Presentation at Highland Library on March 13th

posted by milan opacich on Mar 14th, 2008 at 2:03 am

A very attentive group was on hand to hear Milan speak of his lifelong interest in playing, crafting, and performing his tamburas. Several instruments were displayed as well as photos and books. Milan enjoys sharing his knowledge and experiences.

(Click photo to enlarge)

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Meet Milan

posted by milan opacich on Nov 2nd, 2007 at 3:29 pm
Milan was born and raised in Gary, Indiana. He has always had a deep love for his Slavic heritage and music. He graduated from Lew Wallace High School in 1947, worked as a tool and dye maker after high school and then joined the Gary Fire Department. He began building stringed instruments in 1951 and has perfected his craft through the years. He received the prestigious National Heritage Award in 2004 for his work. He has also received many other awards locally and state-wide. Milan has been married to Rosalyn (Nicolich) for 56 years and they have one daughter, Karin Joann Opacich. Milan, a tamburitza musician, played for more than 60 years, retiring in 2006. He is still creating and building beautiful tamburitza instruments and currently teaching mandolin, guitar, and tamburitza building to adults. A newly formed organization  documenting the history of the Serbian people in Gary has been his latest interest.
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