Yes you can use QR skewers. I use them w/o problems.

Your new Al frames with vertical drop outs won't work. You need horizontal drop outs. Thats why most people on this site scavange around odd places to find old frames with horizontal drop outs. This can be extremely rewarding when you spot that ultra cool frame for dirt cheap.

As far as braking do what you feel comfortable with. Brakes or no brakes is a personal thing when it comes to fixed.