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When you find people who engage in something with such pure passion, you can’t easily overlook them. With an extensive resume in piano studies, Nick Venner continues with strength and determination to practice his beloved instrument.

We spoke with him and asked him some unusual and ordinary questions to get a glimpse into his black-and-white world of the piano.

Nick, Nikola, or Nikolaos?
I believe that choosing a name depends on personal preference.

Nick is simple and easy.
Nikola adds a unique twist to the name and is a good choice.
Nikolaos is the option for those who prefer a more traditional name.

The choice depends on our personal taste, cultural background, and how we want to be perceived and addressed by others. Personally, I like the first two options—Nick and Nikola.

Why the piano?
There are various reasons why I chose the piano:

Versatility: The piano is a flexible instrument, allowing me to play a wide range of musical genres, from classical to jazz, pop, and even contemporary music. I believe its versatility enables pianists to explore different styles and express themselves creatively.

Solo Performance: The piano is unique in that it allows for solo performances. As a pianist, I have the ability to play diverse melodies, harmonies, and complex compositions alone. This independence can be empowering and rewarding.

Expressiveness: The piano offers a vast dynamic range and expressive capabilities. You can convey unique emotions and moods with just the touch of the keys, allowing for a deep personal connection with the music you play.

Accompanying Ensembles: Beyond solo performance, the piano is widely used in ensemble playing. Whether accompanying other musicians or collaborating with singers, playing the piano creates opportunities for teamwork and musical interaction.

Ultimately, choosing and studying a musical instrument is a deeply personal decision. I believe it’s important to follow your passion, enjoy the learning and practice process, and let the instrument unlock your potential for musical expression.

STA 4810A – Nick Venner: “Beautiful ideas come from the dreams we dream!”
Do you dream about the piano? Do you remember any?
I have nightmares… haha! I see the following scene: As I begin my recital in a hall full of people, just as I’m about to place my hands on the keys, some force pulls them down. It’s the worst feeling! At that point, I wake up scared but at the same time relieved that it was only a dream.

When did you realize that you had something special with the piano?
There wasn’t a specific moment. For as long as I can remember, music, and particularly the piano, has been with me and fascinated me. However, I was fortunate to study with very remarkable teachers who opened the door to the world of classical music for me and made me truly love and study the piano seriously and systematically.

Is there a particular place where you’d love to set up a piano and perform?
This is a wonderful idea and thought that constantly lingers in my mind! I would love to have the opportunity to perform recitals in many different places, such as:

In a park: In many countries, it’s common to have piano recitals in botanical gardens and scenic parks. There, people can relax and enjoy the serenity of nature combined with beautiful musical sounds.

In an archaeological site: My greatest desire and dream is to perform a recital at an archaeological site that could be transformed into a romantic and enchanting concert venue.

In a senior care center or hospital: I also really want to organize a piano recital at a senior care center or hospital and offer people there a few moments of musical joy and relaxation. This is a big dream of mine that I hope to fulfill one day.

On the other hand, is there a place, environment, or situation where you would never play?
As a pianist who enjoys playing to delight an audience, I would certainly never perform in spaces with noise pollution that could distract from the calming experience I aim to provide.

Additionally, I wouldn’t play in places where my music might not be appreciated or understood. Choosing the right environment can significantly enhance the audience’s musical experience. The venue should always align with the atmosphere and mood we, as musicians, want to create, ensuring that piano melodies can truly captivate and satisfy the listeners.

Do you compose your own pieces?
At the moment, I haven’t focused on composition. Being a solo pianist requires countless hours of work and study to maintain a high level of performance.

STA 4778 – Nick Venner: “Beautiful ideas come from the dreams we dream!”
What has been your most challenging artistic moment?
When I was younger, I suffered an injury to my left hand due to a sudden movement while playing basketball. This injury later became psychosomatic, causing me distress for about two to three years.

Because I didn’t want to stop playing the piano, I started taking anti-inflammatory medication to manage the pain and overcome my fear. Thanks to these medications, I was able to participate in competitions and recitals. Eventually, after many doctor visits, my hand fully recovered with the help and guidance of an exceptional physiotherapist, whom I deeply appreciate for her time and care.

Do you consider moving abroad as an option?
I have been abroad several times and, in fact, completed my Master’s degree at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. However, while being based in Athens, I travel abroad for recitals and competitions.

I always try to seize opportunities, whether in Greece or internationally. In September, I have been invited to participate in a recital in Chester, UK.

What kind of music do you listen to when you relax or are alone?
I listen to a wide range of music genres!

Although my studies focus on classical music, I also love listening to jazz, cinematic music, pop, and even alternative rock. Some of my favorite artists include:

Yiruma: His soft and emotional piano pieces create a calming atmosphere.
Ludovico Einaudi: I love the minimalist, atmospheric style of his compositions.
Hans Zimmer: His orchestral works inspire me with their grandeur and emotion.
Bill Evans: A legend of jazz piano, his improvisations are mesmerizing.
Queen: Their timeless music and Freddie Mercury’s voice are always a great choice.

What serves as a metronome in your life?
The love and support of my parents and my loved ones.

What’s the smallest and largest piano you’ve ever played?
The smallest piano I played was the first one I ever used—an electric Yamaha keyboard. That’s where I first discovered the piano as an instrument, and it captured my interest.

The largest pianos I’ve played are Steinway & Sons and Fazioli grand pianos in concert halls such as the Greek National Opera and the Mozarteum in Salzburg.

Can you estimate how many hours you have spent in front of the piano in your life?
The hours are countless! I don’t believe in tracking a specific number of hours, but rather in practicing in a way that is as efficient and productive as possible, with a focus on continuous self-improvement.

If young Nikos met the older Nikos, what would he say?
Young Nikos would ask: “How do you achieve your dreams?”
And the older Nikos would reply: “Never stop believing in yourself, dreaming, and making plans! Beautiful ideas come from the dreams we have!”

If you hadn’t chosen the piano, which instrument would you have pursued?
I really like the trumpet and the violin.

What do you think about the future (near or distant)?
I want to continue evolving as a soloist and to be loved by the audience! I look ahead with courage, a smile, and confidence in myself!

Source: https://ipolizei.gr/o-nikos-venner-oi-omorfes-idees-mas-erchontai-apo-ta-oneira-pou-kanoume/