Who is Piano Heist

In 2022, lifelong friends Nico Rhodes and Patrick Courtin were taken aback by the stark realization that the piano had fallen out of favour. Determined to restore its luster and reclaim its title as the ultimate instrument, they embarked on an exhilarating journey. Drawing inspiration from the masterpieces of legendary composers, songwriters, and performers over the last three centuries, they crafted a mesmerizing show that spans the spectrum from classical piano masterpieces to vibrant boogie-woogie, romantic ballads, and epic 80s synth battles in Piano Heist: Keys are the Champions! This enchanting experience unfolds as a delightful blend of theatrical magic, humour, audience engagement, touching narratives, a sprinkle of history, and an explosion of musical creativity. Tours have taken them across Canada and the Western U.S., captivating audiences with over 140 performances in both quaint towns and bustling cities. Looking ahead, they are excited to unveil a brand-new Christmas production in 2025: A Very Merry Heistmas!

PROJECT CREATOR

Nico Rhodes is a genre jumping, multilingual musician who collaborates with other artists and artforms to experience and explore music in as many styles as possible. Growing up touring around the globe surrounded by artists and the world of theatre – he is equally comfortable playing jazz, classical, funk or roots music, orchestrating a symphony, writing musicals, and conducting choirs. He begins his day with an expresso and practicing his Japanese, the language he is currently embracing.

Nico Rhodes is one of the most in demand young arranger/musical directors in Canada, with 40 stage musicals to his credit. He’s written 400 original compositions, four original musicals and arranged two symphonic pops concerts. He’s been nominated for two Jessie and five Ovation Awards and in 2019 was honoured with Nanaimo’s Emerging Cultural Leader Award. He composes for stage, screen, and media, collaborates with multiple choirs, plays with several jazz trios and tours in a duo with his mother, renowned chanteuse Joelle Rabu. In 2022 Nico created his dream show – Piano Heist and produced a series of four multi-artist multi-genre concerts entitled Chapters for The Port Theatre in Nanaimo B.C.

MULTI-INSTRUMENTALIST

Patrick Courtin is a dynamic force in the music world, best known as one half of the innovative duo, Piano Heist. A talented pianist at heart, Patrick is also a multi-instrumentalist, composer, arranger, music director, and educator. His musical journey began with classical piano studies, which he later expanded by completing a degree in Jazz at Vancouver Island University.

With over two decade of experience, Patrick has made his mark as a music director for various musical theatre productions, contributed to recording sessions, and composed music for film and television. His performances have taken him on tours across Canada, the United States, and even to China, showcasing his versatility and passion for music.

Currently, Patrick serves as the Music Director at the renowned Barkerville Historic Town & Park in Wells, British Columbia. His eclectic musical background includes collaborations with silent film, opera singers, swing dancers, and historical theatre productions, highlighting his ability to adapt and thrive in diverse musical environments.