Nick Brightwell was born in Cambridge, New Zealand in 1989. Nick has been playing guitar for over 19 years performing as a soloist and in groups.  

His musical style is a blend of delta blues, flamenco, Nashville picking, and finger style guitar, influenced by his education in New Zealand and North America.

In early 2008 Nick began studying at The New Zealand School of Music in Wellington, New Zealand. Later in 2008 He was accepted into the Peck School of Fine Arts at the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee. He studied finger style guitar performance at the school. In 2013 he graduated as their first international student with a Bachelor of Fine Arts majoring in Fingerstyle Performance and a Certificate in Rock and Roll studies. 

While studying in North America he continued to play regular sets at local hotels, restaurants and venues across the Midwest as well as concert series.

In 2014 Nick returned to New Zealand where he continues to play private events and public concerts in Auckland and Waikato. He currently teaches guitar and music privately in Auckland and via the internet. 

As of 2018 Nick has taught over 200 students across all age groups developing his skills as a mentor and teacher whilst establishing himself in the New Zealand music scene. Nick has been performing public and private concerts of Finger-style guitar across Auckland's various folk clubs and entertainment venues. 

Nick is currently recording his 2nd album and planning tours throughout New Zealand and North America.

Qualifications:

Bachelor of Fine Arts majoring in American Fingerstyle Guitar, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

Certificate in Rock'n'Roll Studies - University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

Competitions:

New Zealand Gold Guitars Awards Senior Instrumentalist Winner 2017

New Zealand Gold Guitars Awards Senior Instrumentalist Winner 2018

New Zealand Gold Guitars Awards Senior Instrumentalist Winner 2019