Visual Communication & Design Systems
Biko & his Balkan Orchestra
A very Balkan film
Lettering, titles & poster for the film Biko & his Balkan Orchestra, a documentary following the everyday adventures of saxophonist Biko Agusev and his team of amazing musicians.
In Strumica, North Macedonia, maestro Biko Agusev proudly upholds his family’s rich tradition of Balkan brass music. Each year, the enchanting sounds of Biko and his brass orchestra resonate through the air as they join their Greek friends, captivating crowds with their thunderous and unique melodies during the vibrant carnival festivities of Naoussa, Greece.
(from the film’s Synopsis)
Official Trailer
Made with love by film directors Anna Antonopoulou and Giorgio Spyridis, the documentary’s first half follows Biko Agusev and his orchestra during rehearsals and preparations for their yearly visit to Naoussa. It depicts moments of their everyday lives, their passionate approach to their music and the relationships between the band members, friends and family.
Custom ligatures and flourishments (based on Fraunces typeface)
Shot on location during quarantine in Strumica, North Macedonia and later in Naoussa, Greece, the film features minimum narration. Music, of course, plays a pivotal role, but the essence of the film lies in the interactions between the characters portrayed.
The film’s title features custom lettering and ligatures based on Fraunces typeface. In the poster, music flows from Biko’s saxophone, revealing his creative world. The characteristic “eye” symbol derives from the traditional carnival masks of Naoussa, the famous Janisars & Boules, who play a prominent role on the film’s second part, featuring the carnival celebrations.
Photo of the Orchestra in Naoussa. A happy bunch of amazing virtuozos
Biko & his Balkan Orchestra was officialy celected for screening in Thessaloniki International Documentary Film Festival of 2025.
Lettering, titles & poster
Commissioned by: Anna Antonopoulou, Giorgio Spyridis, Portolanos Films
Published: 2025
Director: Anna Antonopoulou & Giorgio Spyridis
Cinematography: Stefanos Pappas, Dimosthenis Ioannou, Anna Antonopoulou, Giorgio Spyridis
Editing: Giorgos Alefantis
Music: Orkestra Biko Sax Agusevi
Sound Recording: Alexandros Sakellariou
Sound Design: Vangelis Fampas
Production: Portolanos Films
Co-Produced By: Greek Film Centre & ERT S.A.
Musicians:
Davut Yuseinov
Ferdi Yuseinov
Ramon Cakalov
Seval Destanov
Reşat Demov
Mohamed Cakalov
Cesur Asanov
Ramiz Ayvazov
Neşat Cakalov
Can Yuseyinov