NICOLAS

Nicolas, a recipient of many awards, is recognized as a concert artist and composer of international prominence. His performances and compositions contribute immeasurably to raising the status of the accordion through the promotion and presentation of chamber concerts, solo recitals, and orchestra appearances. Equally proficient in musical styles ranging from the great classics to modern contemporary, ethnic and jazz, Nicolas has won accolades from noted composers, conductors, and musicians alike. Ariando, a member of several composers' organizations and director of THE NICOLAS CHAMBER ENSEMBLE, has received grants from various funding sources including:

• Patroness Mrs. Betty Freeman
• The National Endowment for the Arts
• The California Arts Council
• The White Light Foundation
• ASCAP
• The Beyond Baroque Foundation

Numbered among Ariando's professional appearances, are many performances for radio and television. His versatility also includes technical expertise on piano and electronic keyboards. Nicolas received his Master of Arts degree in performance and composition from CSULA.

A pioneer in his field, Nicolas continues to inspire audiences while exploring new avenues and innovative techniques through his music.

Here Comes The Sun

Solo Guitar Medley

Pachelbel's Cannon and Clark's Trumpet Voluntary

Classical Violin and Guitar

Jazz Violin and Guitar

Keltic Violin and Guitar

4 Minute String Trio (Quicktime)

String Trio

The "Ace Of Hearts" Quartet

String Quartet

BARBERSHOP QUARTETS

The Barbershop Quartet is a unique American folk art. There are hints of the genre dating back to the latter half of the 1800's, and the popular, sentimental songs of the time helped propel the style through the ages.

The Exclusive Gents

The Perfect Blend of Vocals, Versatility, and Vaudeville! The focus in the Barbershop world is excellence in live performance, and The Exclusive Gents are a treat listen to. Besides the expected great vocal harmony, there's some serious silliness to their performances, delighting audiences to a wonderful experience harmony and humor. The Gents can make a barbershop chord ring with the best of them, but we like their tendency to try different, even accompanied stuff, like jive, swing and 50s jazz/pop. These guys are funny, versatile, flat-out great entertainers! The Exclusive Gentsfeatures vocalists DAN JORDAN, PHIL GOLD, TIM REEDER (also on Tenor Guitar and Uke) and JIM CAMPBELL. All have extended resumes and have performed on TV Shows (Gilmore Girls, The Simpsons) , Late Night Variety Shows (TheTonight Show with Jay Leno) , Movies (Disney's The Haunted Mansion) and Stage Shows (West Side Story, The Music Man, My Fair Lady). They have taken tours throughout the United States, Great Britain, and Brazil.

THE STAGE HAMS

Here's a group that will blow your socks off. The Stage Ham will put smile on your face and song in your heart with their tunes and banter. These guys really grab you. You leave your troubles at the front door when they sing. The group believes they may pick up a few more singers after the performance.“We want people to go home feeling good about life!

THE SUSPECTS

Comprised of all four section leaders of So. Cal West’s 2006 Divisional 1st place AA Chorus winners the “San Fernando Valleyaires.” The Suspects performed in the 2005 Bewitched Movie DVD with Will Farrel and Nicole Kidman, Performed at the inauguration ceremony for Los Angeles Mayor Anthony Villaraigosa

• Performed at the Baked Potato
• Performed at the Hollywood Bowl for Pepperdine University
• Two time 2nd place finisher’s for the So Cal West’s Divisional quartet competition.
• Sang for the city Councel’s Christmas tree lighting December 2006.