Nik Svarc

Nik Svarc: A Distinguished Music Graduate and Renowned Teacher

Nik Svarc, a distinguished graduate of Leeds College of Music, boasts a rich history in teaching at prestigious institutions. These include The British Academy of New Music in London and Access to Music. Currently, he fills the role of a guitar instructor at Hull University and serves as a mentor for the postgraduate Pop Music course at Leeds College of Music. On occasion, he also imparts knowledge to students at Leeds University.

Stellar Career and Performances at Renowned Festivals

Throughout his illustrious career, Nik has graced the stages of numerous jazz and popular music festivals. His performance locations range from the Birstonas Jazz Festival in Lithuania to the Manchester Jazz Festival and the Marsden Jazz Festival. Other notable festivals include Wigan Jazz Festival, Southport Jazz Festival, Leeds Jazz Festival, The O2 Wireless Festival in Hyde Park, Gateshead International Jazz Festival, Soho Jazz Jam, and the London Jazz Festival. He has also performed at international events in Poland.

Contributions to SvarcTrio and Other Musical Projects

As a band member of Svarc, Hanley, Longhawn, Nik was selected for the Northern Line (Jazz North) touring support scheme by a panel that included the renowned saxophonist Stan Sultzman. Nik also leads the power trio SvarcTrio, where he collaborates with bassist Garry Jackson and drummer Dave Walsh. Moreover, he is a member of bassist Scott Devine’s Project, alongside Louie Palmer (Mike Stern/Janek Gwizdala) and Russell Van Den Berg (Kenny Wheeler/Carla Bley/Phil Woods).

A Versatile Guitarist and Notable Collaborations

In addition to his work with various bands, Nik is the guitarist for the Russell Van Den Berg Quartet and has appeared on two albums, ‘Aquitaine Heights’ and ‘Aphonia’. He has teamed up with Scott Devine on a blues course and has recorded and performed with various pop bands and solo artists. These include Rodina, featuring Joe Tatton (The New Mastersounds), Rhianna Kenny (Faithless/Ian Brown), Jarvis, producer Al Stone (Jamiroquai), and legendary studio engineer and record producer Phil Brown.

As a Teacher and Expert in Guitar Effects

Besides his work as a musician and composer, Nik is also a dedicated teacher in the London and Leeds areas. He provides exceptional instruction at various educational institutions and prestigious schools. Nik is well-known for his expertise in guitar effects, and his work is featured in the Fundamental Changes book, ‘Guitar Pedals: Mastering Guitar Effects’ by Rob Thorpe, available at here.

Membership in The Groove Razors and Dave Hassell’s Hydra

Nik is a member of The Groove Razors, which includes Alan Short on alto saxophone and flute, Tomasz Zyrmont on piano and keys, Kevin Glasgow on bass, and Laurie Lowe on drums. In addition, he is a member of Dave Hassell’s Hydra. Nik has performed with notable musicians such as Tim Lefebvre (Wayne Krantz/David Bowie/Tedeschi Trucks Band).

Recent Performances at the London Bass Guitar Show

Recently, Nik displayed his talents at the London Bass Guitar Show at London Olympia. Collaborating with Scott Devine, Oli Rockberger, and Jack Pollitt on The SBL (Scott’s Bass Lessons) Stage, he shared the platform with other performers like Gary Willis, Rich Brown, Bobby Vega, and Henrik Linder.