Bio

Oboist

Nick Carozza is a versatile young oboist; from symphony to the skatepark. He has pushed the boundaries of oboe playing and explored the instrument in chamber ensembles, orchestras, concert bands, and his own jazz combo Mind of 3. Nick is the principal oboist of the Valley Symphony Orchestra in Montrose, Colorado. He also performs oboe/english horn in the Grand Junction Symphony Orchestra. In addition to his orchestral playing, Nick mentors young musicians with the Valley Youth Orchestra. Nick has been guest soloist with the 2015 District 51 Honor Choir, Valley Youth Orchestra, Colorado Mesa University String Orchestra, and Colorado Mesa University Women's Choir. His musical ambitions are a constant push for improvement with reed making and performing. Nick performs regularly in the Western Colorado concert series “Russell & Friends” with Valley Symphony Principal bass Justin Russell. Nick has also performed session work on the record “A Season of Jenny” by Ken Dravis (Aspen Leaf Recording, 2017). Nick resides in Grand Junction, Colorado and when he's not making reeds or practicing, you can find him playing chess, hiking, playing video games, or jogging with his mini-Schnauzer Emmy.

Pianist

Nick Carozza has extensive experience in piano performance, including jazz, classical, collaborative, and worship settings. Nick has been the keyboard player for the youth ministry of Fellowship Church (Grand Junction) since 2014. Nick is also the pianist for the Charisma Chorus, an after school choir program. This is where he gained his skill in harmony and collaboration. These skills laid the foundation for Nick to expand into the world of collaborative piano. Nick has performed on senior recitals with instruments from the flute to the tuba. Nick is the perfect performer for your wedding, party, or social event. He wants to make friends with your grand piano!

Conductor/Composer

Besides performing, Nick also actively pursues conducting and composing. Nick made his conducting debut with the Valley Youth Orchestra in 2019. Nick sees rehearsal as on opportunity to share life lessons and collaborative strategies through music. As a composer, Nick has written many jazz pieces, including "For Liz" dedicated to his little sister. His compositions have been performed extensively, including at the Colorado Music Educator's Association Convention. Nick composed his first film soundtrack for the 2019 production "The Vaxx".