Here we are with the first interview of 2026 and it already set the bar super high for the rest of the year. Our exceptionally insightful and entertaining session with multi-hyphenate Nicholas Pike has yielded stunning stories from his time in the music business. From playing flute and piano to writing and composing, Nicholas shared tales and takeaways about music direction, orchestration, working with the likes of Bill Frisell, Michael Jackson and Stan Winston. Those are just a few of the stops on the highway of his career.
Like most musicians, Nicholas got his start at an early age, and his focus on jazz and unique playing styles helped him find like minded, band mates and collaborators. And while the world of music is not for the faint of heart, his work ethic, passion and overall cheery demeanor has served him well. Nicholas’ gift has brought him to the table plenty of times and opened the door to all sorts of creative projects.
If you were to scan through Mr. Pike’s resume, one thing reoccurring theme stands out. It may be a coincidence, but in his four decades he’s done an awful lot of horror-themed projects. Whether they are mid-level scares or all-out nightmare fuel, Nicholas tells us that he finds those projects the most freeing. Why? Well that’s because there’s really is no right or wrong way to score horror. Any sound can be scary or manipulated to raise pulses.
Today, we put focus on the work he did for Yvonne Russo‘s documentary, Viva Verdi. The charming film is about the elderly opera stars and musicians living in the famous Milan retirement home created and funded by Giuseppe Verdi in 1899. The doc takes an amusing and heartwarming look at older generations finding contentment and longevity in their “third act.” It’s a house (as in Casa) but, perhaps, it should be a castle because of the magic that happens within those walls.
Additionally, the film features an original song written by Nicholas, and “Sweet Dreams of Joy” is performed by soprano superstar, Ana Maria Martinez. It has been shortlisted for the Academy Award in the Best Original Song category.
So, without further ado, let’s kick off this episode of The GoSeeTalk Podcast Experience as we talk notes and nuance, as well as memories, music and more with Nicholas!
At Milan’s Casa Verdi retirement home, elderly opera stars and musicians mentor young students while sharing their remarkable lives. Built by Verdi in 1896, this unique residence unites generations through music and passion.
