BIOGRAPHY
A native of Sierra Leone, Leon Lewis-Nicol is a jazz pianist whose musical inspiration, compositions and improvisational voice are deeply rooted in his West African Heritage and Christian beliefs.
He studied classical piano with Dr. Silvan Negrutiu at Millikin University, where he pursued a commercial music degree and debuted with the Millikin Decatur Symphony Orchestra (MDSO) as a soloist (2019). Prior to enrolling at Millikin in August 2017, he attended Parkland College for one year following his pre-college education in Sierra Leone and Ghana as a self-taught musician. He is currently studying with Prof. John Stephens at the University of Illinois where he is pursuing his Doctorate in Jazz Piano Performance degree.
Leon is an active performing/touring artist who leads his own group and has made numerous appearances with other groups including the New York-based band ‘Michael Mwenso and the Shakes’ whom he made his debut performance with at The Lincoln Center in New York City.
Beyond music he enjoys working out, drawing, watching/playing soccer and outdoor activities.