Nick Schillace / Owner - Guitar, Banjo
Nick has been playing music for over 30 years. Nick began his studies under Dr. James T. Lidgett, focusing on classical, jazz and contemporary music. He also spent time in the southern United States to study with traditional American musicians such as John Jackson, John Cephas, Nat Reese, Pat Donahue and Steve James, and in the process he formed a lifelong love of traditional American music and a passion for early guitar styles.
Nick completed a graduate thesis focusing on American 20th century music at Wayne State University in 2002. While at WSU, Nick received the John Pantolao Scholarship, The Music Study Club Scholarship, and the Graduate Professional Scholarship.
As a performer, Nick has worked extensively as both a solo and ensemble player, releasing over 12 full length albums. His solo acoustic guitar albums are recognized as major works in the American Primitive guitar canon. He tours locally, nationally and internationally as both a performer as well as an educator.
A professional music educator for over 20 years, Nick has owned and operated Orion Music Studio since 2000.