Nelson Mariscal

Born in Brazil from Bolivian descent, Nelson grew up in Tampa and began musical performance at the age of seven. Starting with piano, drums, trombone and tuba in middle school, he finally ventured into the world of guitar at 13. After a year in training, Nelson auditioned and was immediately accepted to Blake High School of the Arts. There, he entered classical guitar instruction with esteemed educator John Michael Parris. In 2004, Nelson won the National Foundation for Advancement in the Arts’ Merit Recognition Award. He graduated to study classical guitar at Florida State University’s College of Music under Professor Bruce Holzman. While at FSU, he began exploring jazz composition with Joel Johnson and Leo Welch. In 2005, Nelson attended New York University’s Guitar Intensive Program to further explore jazz theory. He began teaching private lessons during his senior year and, in 2008, earned his BA Music degree. Nelson came back to Tampa to continue teaching and has delighted venues around the region with his solo classical guitar, ceremonial ensembles, acoustic guitar, duo/trios, full electric bands and also working along with various musicians/acts in the community. His greatest influences are Francisco Tarrega, Andres Segovia, Dilermando Reis, Wes Montgomery, Joe Pass, Carlos Santana, James Brown, Stevie Wonder, and Michael Jackson.