Meet Nicholas Washington, also known as Nick "The Maestro."  As a passionate and versatile musician, Nick has dedicated his life to creating and sharing music across a wide range of genres. Based in Mason, Ohio, Nick lives with his wife, Sherisse, and their two children, Maya and Luke. His musical journey has been deeply personal, shaped by years of formal training, self-taught skills, and a deep-rooted love for the art form.

A Lifelong Musical Journey

Nick’s musical story began at a young age in a family where a piano had been passed down through two generations. His mom’s first cousins were all “forced” to take lessons, but none of them really stuck with it. However, Nick developed a deep connection with the instrument and a passion for music that would grow into something far greater than anyone could have predicted.

Nick’s musical foundation was built on formal piano training, but he also learned by ear, picking up techniques and songs through his own exploration. This blend of structured learning and self-driven discovery has shaped his unique musical style. Along the way, Nick expanded his skillset, playing the oboe through middle school and secondary school, serving as Drum Major in high school, and performing with collegiate wind ensembles. His love for musical theatre also led him to perform on stage and direct productions into his adulthood, further expanding his creative range.

Musical Style and Influences

Nick’s musical style is as diverse as his training. He specializes in gospel, classical, pop, R&B, musical theatre, and neo-soul.  He blends these genres to create a distinctive sound that resonates with a wide audience. From the uplifting spirit of gospel to the smooth, heartfelt rhythms of neo-soul, Nick’s music speaks to listeners from all walks of life.

Much of Nick’s musical inspiration came from his experiences playing a wide variety of styles and genres throughout his schooling, where he played in bands, orchestras, and in church. These diverse musical environments helped him develop his own voice as an artist. Over the years, he has continued to draw inspiration from many musicians whose creativity and authenticity continue to fuel his artistic growth.

Notable Achievements

Performance Experience

Nick’s musical versatility has allowed him to perform at a wide variety of events, including weddings, funerals, church services, showers, parties, events, and other special occasions. Whether on stage at a formal event or in an intimate setting, Nick’s ability to adapt and connect with his audience makes each performance special. Music has always been a way for Nick to bring people together, and he considers it a privilege to help create memorable moments through his art.

What Sets Nick Apart

What makes Nick truly unique as a musician is his ability to blend multiple talents into one cohesive sound. Not only is he skilled at reading music and playing by ear, but he’s also known for his adaptability—quickly changing keys and rearranging pieces to suit different voices or musical groups and pushing the boundaries of the genre. In addition to his performance skills, Nick is an accomplished composer and writer, creating original works that capture his musical vision.

He also brings a sense of creativity and humor to his performances, often crafting musical parodies that add a fun twist to his shows. His ability to blend humor with heartfelt music sets him apart in a way that makes every performance feel fresh and exciting.

Current Projects

Nick is currently working on an exciting new project: a Gospel Neo-Soul album. This album combines the rich, soulful elements of gospel with the smooth, contemporary sounds of neo-soul, reflecting Nick’s unique musical journey. Fans can look forward to hearing new music that pushes the boundaries of genres while staying true to the themes of faith, love, and connection.

A Personal Connection

For Nick, music is more than just a career—it’s a way of life. His journey began with a simple love for the piano, but it soon became clear that music would play a central role in shaping his identity. From early lessons to self-taught exploration, performing on stage, and leading musical groups, Nick’s path has been one of constant growth and discovery.

His story is a reminder that music is not just about technique or performance; it’s about passion, connection, and the joy that comes from sharing one’s soul through sound. Nick is grateful for every opportunity to share his music with the world, and he looks forward to continuing his journey and connecting with audiences in meaningful ways.

In this feature, Nick reflects on his role as a STEAM teacher at Mason Public Schools, the joy he finds in working with students, and the impact of his teaching approach. As a Black male educator, he emphasizes the importance of representation and its influence on students’ aspirations. Nick’s commitment to inspiring the next generation extends beyond the classroom, impacting students and the community.