25-year-old Natalie Nikaó is an up-and-coming jazz singer-songwriter who has performed for audiences throughout the United States and Europe. Some of those venues include The NAFME Conference, Daughter’s Conference (Altoona and Pittsburgh, PA), The Pennsylvania State Capitol, Penn State University, The Hershey Giant Center, La Sagrada Familia, and many others. She has worked with bands such as The Mansfield University Jazz Ensemble and The SanTones Jazz Orchestra. In addition, she has also performed alongside artists such as Loren Battley, Laila Biali, Victor Goines, Peter Eldridge, and Josh Groban.

Natalie has been highly influenced by the music of her parents (primarily the music of the 70s, Gospel, and Motown). Her mother was a music educator of over 30+ years and her father participated as the lead singer in a band called the Progressions. Her family has always been a musical one and making music together is one of her passions. Natalie frequently performs alongside her brother Andrae Holsey. “The music we create is inspired by being a part of a multi-racial family as well as very spirit filled and driven. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their love and support.”

In her other efforts, Natalie has dedicated her time to gigging and working with collaborative musicians and bands. In particular, singing with the RighteousNow band, based in Altoona, PA partnered with MusicHelpsLLC. Natalie performs as a singer and pianist and continues to grow in her craft on her time off from school. Natalie graduated from Mansfield University and credits a lot of her love for jazz to Dr. Sheryl Monkelien. “My time at Mansfield was one of the best experiences of my life. The classical training was something I never knew that I needed, but I wouldn’t take back for the world.”

Soon after finishing her Bachelor’s in Music Education, Nikaó attended the School for Music Vocations @ SWCC in Creston, IA. “This school has truly shaped who I am as a musician and enhanced my musical capabilities. This school challenges the students with honing their craft and paying attention to extreme details when it comes to intentional musical growth. An extra special thanks to my teachers Professor Tobi Crawford, Dr. Tyler Thomas, Dr. Lauren Powell, Professor Anna Chen, Dr. Sheryl Monkelien, Dr. Peggy Dettwiler, Jordan Shreiner, Dr. Youngsuk Kim, Justina Shandler, and Dr. Jeremy Fox.”

Currently, Natalie is attending UNT (University of North Texas) as a master’s Graduate Teaching Fellow training under Professor Jennifer Barnes and Rosana Eckert. With each step, Natalie is honored by the opportunity to work with such high caliber musicians in one of the best schools for Vocal Jazz in the nation. Nikaó can be seen singing with the UNT Jazz Singers and directing West End Vocal Jazz ensemble, as well as participating in jazz combos and her newest endeavor, The Nüe Group (check out socials to learn more).

“I am so honored to be a part of a community that never stops giving. Music is the universal language of mankind that we can all relate to. I want to thank everyone for being a part of this new journey and I look forward to getting to know you and to connect as we go.”