A Biography


Once in a while along comes the 'complete vocalist, that rare and talented individual who can take any style and turn it effortlessly into their own. Nicki Allan is that vocalist - Whether it be Jazz, Soul, Gospel or Blues, Nicki's rich timbre and superb vocal range enable her to move the hearts of the most hardened sceptic and draw in the listener to connect in a way rarely experienced nowadays

Nicki's musical ability was apparent from an early age. Initially learning the piano as a child she then went on to study as a classical pianist at the Leeds College of music gaining a first class degree in Jazz and Contemporary Music. It was whilst on the Jazz course that Nicki discovered her vocal talents, an ability that was immediately obvious and was to pave the way for her later success. As a second study Double Bass player, constantly changing roles between the Double bass section in the College Symphony orchestra and an up-right jazz bass player in an all-girl Dixieland band, the opportunity to sing and play presented itself, introducing Nicki to the world of professional gigs and live audiences.

After graduating Nicki joined a highly successful Leeds-based cabaret band as a keyboard/vocalist, touring all over Europe and the UK, doing summer seasons and Cruise ship work, continually developing her vocal skills and extensive repertoire. Afterwards, Nicki worked for many years as a solo pianist in residence and freelance vocalist on the club circuit performing at many cabaret venues and shows nationwide, often combining keyboard playing and singing on the weddings and functions circuit. Combined with all the gigs there has always been a large amount of vocal teaching and session work to fit into the schedule. Nicki has been in demand as a session vocalist on many studio projects, largely due to her astute ear and ability to harmonise quickly and to complete songs in one take. Some of these recordings can be heard by visiting the links page and clicking onto the Area 39 link to hear the Pink Floyd inspired vocals on Ray Turrell’s epic creation, or released by Kingsway music, the number of Christian songs on various artists’ compilations, recorded by Nicki for Christopher Norton, Music Producer and Composer of ‘Microjazz’ piano works.

Nicki’s ability to interpret Jazz Classics effortlessly and stylishly has made her a well-respected Jazz singer over the last few years. Her first Jazz album 'Fields of Gold' features many well-known jazz standards and ballads. To hear excerpts from the album, click on the music page and check the Concerts page for forthcoming gigs in your area if you would like to see Nicki Perform live with her quartet. Keep an eye on the website for news of the follow up album which will be coming out later next year.


Combined with her hectic performing schedule, Nicki is a well-known face at the Leeds College of Music where she has been a voice teacher for many years. Nicki was largely self taught throughout her early performing career, then sought opera training from Jane Anthony of Opera North and has gained a wide experience of teaching both jazz and popular vocal styles & techniques. Her students hail from the Musical Theatre Course and the B.A Hons Degree in Popular Music Course, though Nicki also teaches Variety ensembles, Theory of music and performing skills. Nicki also runs and teaches the LCM Gospel Choir which is into its fourth year now. They regularly perform throughout the year at local venues and community events supporting charities and good causes. On the music page you will find the Gospel Album, an original collection of songs written by Nicki, which became the inspiration for forming the Gospel choir and certain songs regularly feature in the choir’s repertoire. Click on the audio clips on the music page to hear some of those songs.
Nicki has a busy private teaching practice away from the college. She gives pop/jazz singing lessons from her home in Leeds and has worked as a vocal coach for the Billy Elliot Academy based in London. Nicki is also co-ordinator for the Jazz/popular vocal summer school each year at the Leeds College of Music, designed to encourage and build confidence in young jazz/popular singers. More information
on the summer schools can be found through looking at the college website www.lcm.ac.uk

Finally, do look around the rest of the site where you will find current concert listings and audio clips from Nicki’s Jazz and Gospel albums and solo piano/cabaret recordings. Both the albums are available to buy so please see music page for details. There is also a news page for more up to date information. Nicki is available for private functions, either solo, with pop duo Avante or with her Jazz Quintet or Function band.

For more information e-mail info@nickiallan.com, or telephone 07905 482615 to discuss your individual requirements.