Coming home to Newcastle!!
My musical start came about through a Rathmines Primary School music program. We were encouraged to try various instruments and the Baritone seemed to fit me best. From there I joined the Toronto Brass Band (pronounced Tronno) where I received my foundational musical training under the tutelage of Genevieve and Greg Smith. Shortly thereafter Toronto ascended to the B grade, doubtless because of my 2nd baritone playing. I’ve continued to play with Toronto Brass through the years, even after immigrating to New Zealand I still try to hop back over for major competitions.
Nick conducting the Zephyrs
Brass banding is my origin but I quite quickly sought out any ensemble that would include me. Before long I had played in most of the community wind, brass and orchestral ensembles in the Newcastle and wider NSW region; picking up the trombone and tuba along the way (thanks to my teacher Fiona Watson).
Nick with his Klezmer band
Tuba ultimately was the instrument that most resonated with me and I spent a few aimless but fun years traveling Australia with various eclectic groups playing klezmer fusion party music at bars, bar mitzvahs, weddings, festivals, and house parties.
A young Nick playing in Toronto Brass
I dabbled with other career paths but ultimately kept coming back to music. When I was informed of a vacancy in the New Zealand Army Band I took the opportunity to travel to a new country (and a much more stable gig).
Nick being towed by a bicycle chariot at a music festival
I’ve since found New Zealand to be a land of great opportunity and I’ve been fortunate to have opportunities to play elite level brass music with Wellington Brass and the National Band as well as orchestral work with The New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, Auckland Philharmonia and The Christchurch Symphony Orchestra.
Nick (and Jeremy Richardson) performing with Wellington Brass at the 2023 NZ Brass Band Championships
Currently I am the Musical Director of Norwest Brass Zephyrs and the Lincoln Wind band and I will be the assistant MD of the 2024 National Youth Brass Band of New Zealand.
