Nicholas Di Giovanni
About
Hey there, I'm Nicholas Di Giovanni, a dedicated musician based in Montreal, Canada. With a rich background in jazz, I bring over 20 years of experience to the table. My passion lies in nurturing students' musical talents and instilling in them a deep love for music. Fluent in English, French, Italian, and with a basic grasp of Spanish, I pride myself on connecting with students from diverse backgrounds. From crafting engaging lesson plans to guiding students in technical proficiency and musical interpretation, I'm committed to delivering exceptional instruction. My performance journey has taken me to prestigious venues and festivals, and I'm honored to have received accolades like the J.W. McConnell Award and the Grace E. Tuttle Scholarship from McGill University.
Here is a resume of some of my Professional work:
Recordings
Nikki Yanofsky “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas/It’s a Marshmellow World” (2022)| Matt Mardini “Live at Rialto” (2021) | Nick Di Giovanni Quartet “Live” at The Crescent (2020) |NFB children special “Freaks of Nurture” (2017)| Andre White “Give the Drummer Some” (2016) | NFB documentary “Gun Runners” (2015) | Fred Pauze “Cosmos” (2013) | Becky Nobel “Salish Folk Song” (2012) | National Geographic documentary “The Pickpocket King” (2012) |“Father vs Son” (2009)
Session Guitarist
Nikki Yanofsky (2022) | Matt Mardini (2019-present) |Poppy Duverne (2022) | Az (2021-2022) | Sophie Milman (2019) | Celebrity Solstice Orchestra (2018) | Mado's 30-year celebration at the Montreal Pride Festival (2017) |Montreal All City Big Band directed by Christian Morrisette (2005-2007) | Celebrity Solstice Orchestra (2018)
Musical Director, Guitarist, and Arranger
The Showmen Orchestra (2013-present) | Nick Di Giovanni Quartet (2015-present) | Az (2021-2023)
Montreal International Jazz Festival
MG and the Skinnybones (2011, 2014) | Becky Nobel Group (2013) | Karine Betournay Quartet (2011)
Regular Guest Host at Montreal Jazz Jam Sessions
Upstairs | Dieze Onze | Grumpys | L’Albion | Café Lezard
Teaching Style
With over two decades of teaching experience, my approach is all about creating a warm and supportive atmosphere where students feel comfortable to explore and grow their musical abilities. I value building strong connections with each student, tailoring my methods to suit their unique learning styles. From designing engaging curricula to mentoring students in technical skills and musical interpretation, I aim to foster a love for music while nurturing their creativity. Embracing technology like music notation software and digital recording tools, I strive to make learning enjoyable and accessible. Ultimately, my goal is to inspire students to embrace music as a lifelong passion and to empower them to achieve their musical dreams.
Curriculum
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"The Advancing Guitarist" by Mick Goodrick: This book offers insights into advanced guitar techniques, improvisation, and music theory applicable to jazz guitarists.
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"The Jazz Theory Book" by Mark Levine: This comprehensive guide covers jazz theory from basic to advanced concepts, including chord-scale theory, harmony, and improvisation.
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"The Real Book" series: These are collections of lead sheets containing standard jazz tunes, essential for developing repertoire and learning jazz standards.
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"Patterns for Jazz" by Jerry Coker, James Casale, Gary Campbell, and Jerry Greene: This book provides a systematic approach to learning jazz improvisation through scale patterns, arpeggios, and melodic ideas.
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"Jazz Guitar Soloing: The Cellular Approach" by Randy Vincent: This book introduces a unique approach to jazz improvisation based on the concept of cells, helping guitarists develop fluid and melodic solos.
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"The Guitarist's Guide to Composing and Improvising" by Jon Damian: This resource offers practical exercises and insights into improvisation, composition, and developing a personal voice as a jazz guitarist.
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"Jazz Guitar Chord Mastery" by Joseph Alexander: This book focuses on mastering jazz chord voicings, progressions, and substitutions essential for accompanying and soloing in a jazz context.
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Transcriptions of jazz guitar masters: Studying transcriptions of influential jazz guitarists such as Wes Montgomery, Joe Pass, and Django Reinhardt can provide valuable insights into phrasing, articulation, and improvisational techniques.
Credentials & Affiliations
Teaching Experience
Professor and Head of Guitar Department
College Notre-Dame (2012-2017)
- Developed and implemented a comprehensive guitar curriculum for students at various skill levels.
- Mentored and guided students in developing technical proficiency and musical interpretation.
- Prepared students for performances, competitions, and auditions.
- Organized and directed student recitals and ensemble performances.
- Conducted group lessons and provided individualized instruction to address students' unique needs.
Music Teacher
Italmelodie Laval (2006-2012)
- Delivered private music lessons to students of all ages and skill levels.
- Designed customized lesson plans to suit individual learning styles and goals.
- Prepared students for music examinations, competitions, and concerts.
- Fostered a supportive and engaging learning environment to enhance students' musical abilities.
Private Lessons
Home studio (2001-2023)
- Provided one-on-one instruction to students, focusing on technique, musicality, and repertoire.
- Tailored lessons to meet the specific needs and interests of each student.
- Helped students develop a strong foundation in music theory and sight-reading skills.
- Prepared students for auditions and performances.
Education
Bachelor of Music (Jazz Performance) 3.76/4.0
McGill University (2010). Recipient of J.W. McConnell Award (2009) and the Grace E. Tuttle Scholarship (2008)
Specialized in jazz guitar performance, music theory, composition, and improvisation.
DEC (Classical Guitar/Popular Music)
Vanier College (2005).
Developed solid foundational skills in classical and popular guitar styles.