Nico Orazi is a leader, a driven student, and an incredible musician. His commitment to everything he does, along with his iconic curly hair, makes him stand out among his fellow saxophone players. In addition to his passion for music, he has a thirst for knowledge, focused especially on world affairs.
Nico’s musical journey began when he was just a baby after his parents discovered his perfect pitch. They would buy him musical toys to play with, and he recalls, “I could figure things out, learning songs by listening to them on the radio. They were always very encouraging about my pursuit of music.” He started piano lessons shortly after, which he continued throughout elementary school. In middle school, he began learning the flute but switched to jazz band in eighth grade, leading him to his true passion: the tenor saxophone.
Nico explains, “I started playing jazz in my eighth-grade year. My favorite instrument to play is the tenor sax. That’s always the instrument I find myself coming back to. I’ve tried out a lot of instruments—including the clarinet and other saxophones—but I feel that my true voice is on the tenor sax.” This commitment is seen in his years in Enloe’s various jazz ensembles—including the Burnin’ Bananas, who went to New York this year.
His years in Enloe’s band and marching band have given him a new perspective on life and how to take on intimidating ventures. When asked what mantra he uses to keep himself composed while playing, practicing, or taking on AP classes, he said, “Just play, man. Put your head down and work.” He credits his work ethic to his second year in band, and class of 2024 graduate Conor Lee, a role model who demonstrated the diligence and meticulousness that Nico tries to take with him throughout his life. Outside of school, Miss Byrne, the director of Triangle Youth Jazz Orchestra, has also impacted Nico’s musical style, emphasizing technique. Over the years, Nico has received first chair in the state for baritone saxophone, first place in regionals for tenor and baritone sax, as well as an outstanding soloist award.
Outside of his musical talent, Nico Orazi has developed a strong interest in global politics. His fascination was strengthened in Mrs. Slusser’s AP World History class, where he found himself engrossed in world history textbooks. The setup of the class’s independent study and lecture allowed him to thrive, cultivating his love for world affairs. Nico’s true passion for studying global affairs comes from a desire to understand the countries he’d like to visit. His dream travel destination would be South America, “It’s just a very vibrant culture, good music, similar to culture here but different in other ways, so I think that would be a kind of interesting way to kind of broaden my perspective on how the world is,” Nico said. Following this experience and after taking AP micro and macro, his interest in finance also began to grow, leading to his current intended major, economics!
Good luck at Williams College, Nico!
