Biography

Nicky Spence is a music student currently finishing his studies at the Guildhall School of Music. But unlike many of his fellow students, Nicky has a major label recording contract, and is looking forward to going into the studio to record his first album in 2006.

Enamoured by music from a young age, Nicky’s path to a record deal has been one of excellence. Born in Dumfriesshire in 1983, Nicky won his first competition at the age of 14 (the Dumfries and Galloway Young Musician of the Year Award), and hasn’t looked back since. A short stint working at the local fish and chip shop after school only helped him set his finances straight before going to Wallace Hall Academy in Dumfriesshire, where he continued his musical education, discovering a love of classical music and a great affection for the Scottish songs of his upbringing. Singing at various public concerts (including a steady stream of Caledonian club gigs!), Scotland began to notice one of its sons beginning to make a name for himself.

Winning a place at the Guildhall School of Music marked Nicky’s entry into the top tier of professional singers. Since arriving there, he has won the extremely prestigious Kathleen Ferrier Award, and has appeared in a number of very well received, high profile performances. Perhaps prime amongst these was his part in a version of Peter Grimes at the Berlin Philharmonic, where he had the opportunity to work with Sir Simon Rattle and Sir Trevor Nunn-impressive collaborators for a 22-year-old!

Nicky has also had considerable recital experience, and is increasingly being considered as one of the finest singers of his generation. But on top of his obvious talent, Nicky is a natural performer whose generous nature and infectious optimism communicate themselves to all who work with him. And whilst he’s busy working with the top people in his profession, he never forgets where he comes from: Nicky Spence is a great Scot in the making, with the ability and persona to make it to the very top. Expect big things from Nicky’s debut album, out in early 2006.