I was born on July 16th, 1970 and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.
I can't remember not loving music.
From a very young age, I was intrigued by an old guitar in the basement of my parents' house. My parents bought a new guitar when I was 11 years old and I started to learn how to play. I knew immediately that music was what I wanted to do for life.
My parents were very supportive. I studied music throughout my teens at a local music education facility (Millers School of Music). At the age of 17, after years of dedicated study, I was hired to teach there.
Throughout my teenage years, I played in various band situations. At age 18, I began playing in bars around Winnipeg. From 1992 - 1996, I lived in Toronto where I had the opportunity to perform in several different venues with various musicians. This also was my first opportunity to become involved in writing music and recording. I had the pleasure of meeting and playing with some of my musical influences, over the years
Upon moving back to Winnipeg, I went back to performing in the local cover band circuit.
In 1998 I released my first independent CD, which was a self indulgent instrumental album, entitled "Passion". Some songs from that disc are performed live with the cover band "Silly Putty".
In 2002, my efforts were dedicated towards writing songs for an album released under the band name "Tangerine". Tangerine had played several live dates, including, opening slots for Honeymoon Suite, Platinum Blonde, and David Wilcox.
Over the years I have also had the pleasure of playing on various artists' CDs. More recently I have become somewhat of a freelance musician. I do some substitute guitar playing in The Ron Paley Orchestra. It's been one of the most fulfilling musical experiences in my life to pay with this band, which includes some of Canada's greatest musicians. (In my opinion, I consider Ron Paley to be a "musical genius")
Teaching music has become a very big part of my musical career. I currently have approximately 45 students. Together with my wife Dana, we operate and own 50% of a local music education facility, Transcona Music Center.
2005 was a bit of a roller-coaster ride. There were a few Harlequin tours in there. Then in the Spring, I started doing some work with Trevor Hurst of Econoline Crush. At the end of the summer I went back to Harlequin for the full time guitar position.
I am also very happy to be playing with one of Canada's finest Classic Rock bands. Harlequin is one band that has a rich past with several hits and successful gold and platinum albums, yet has continued to evolve and release new material. I very much look forward to working with Harlequin in the future. Check out the website at: www.harlequintheband.com
Currently there are still several irons in the fire. I am currently writing more material for some up and coming releases. Stay tuned for more info
Hey! Just thought to drop by. Hows life been treating you? Did you have yourself a good summer? I've been busy recording/mixing. I'm finally done. Now its off for printing. There are 5 NEW re-mastered tracks up on the band-site. When you get the operatunity, have a listen. Theres also a BLOG set up for feedback on the songs. Feel free to leave a detailed comment there. Stay in touch. I respond to all messages. Till then... Take Care, Nikko
Just stopping in, see how your summers been going thus far. I'm back in Winnipeg. The CDs almost completed. All the Best to you. Have a awesome summer... Nikko
Thanks for joining the site. How you doing? Getting geared-up for summer? Just thought to let you know theres new tracks on the site. Sounding much better than the last with Trent's help. These are the Originals I'm working on now. Let me know what you think. Please feel free to leave a comment in the blog regarding feedback. I appreciate all comments. Recording is going we'll, should be done very soon. 'Timeless' (Box set) is already completed. Stay in touch... Nikko
Hey Derrick, ran into another Derrick (probably spelled differently though) who plays guitar in Bob's Yer Uncle...said they opened for you guys at the Convention Center and to say 'hi'...so HI!
hey, i found this website for getting cool things for my cell phone! check it out just copy & paste or type www.groovinringtones.com into your browser. cya!
