About

Matthew Nicholson is a saxophonist, singer-songwriter, and music producer based in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. His dynamic stage presence and emotive performance style have captivated audiences at festivals, theatres, and venues across the province. Drawing on jazz, blues, and pop influences, Matthew’s sound blends soulful melodies with understated complexity, always grounded in storytelling and emotional honesty.

Over the years, Matthew has performed at the Cape Breton Jazz Festival for more than a decade, and appeared as a guest soloist with the Cape Breton Orchestra multiple times. He’s played with a wide range of ensembles and was a member of Highway 125, a rock/blues group that brought him to stages like the Pembroke Blues Festival and Music Mountain.

Matthew's collaborative work spans both live performance and studio production. He has recorded and produced with artists such as Sarah Ellen Morrison, John B. Main, Avery Dakin, and Chuck Smith, contributing vocals, saxophone, and production. His resume includes everything from musical theatre pit bands to jazz combos, cover bands, and original projects.

Equipment

Soprano: Yamaha 82 Custom Z

Soprano MPC: Selmer Concept Soprano Mouthpiece

Alto: Yamaha 82 Custom Z

Alto MPC: Early Babbitt Otto Link Tone Edge 5* (Jazz) or Selmer S90 180 (Classical)

Tenor: Yamaha 62 II

Tenor MPC: Retro Revival Stubbie 7 (Jazz) or Vandoren V5 T27 (Classical)

Baritone: Severin Baritone (Yanigasawa B1 Stencil)

Baritone MPC: Otto Link Tone Edge 7*