Biography
Born into a musical family, Nolan Mancl found their love and curiosity for music at a very young age.
Mancl received their first drum set at the age of two and began learning the basics from their father. Later, they took piano lessons, attended music camps, played percussion in middle school, and took private percussion lessons in high school.
While at Mosinee High School, Mancl performed with the Concert Band, Marching Band, Jazz Band, Concert Choir, and Variety Show Pit. They served as Percussion Captain, Section Leader, Drum Major, and Band President during their time there. They also participated in several honors bands, including the Great Northern Conference Honors Band, Wisconsin State Honors Band, the National Band Association’s Wisconsin All-State Band, and the Wisconsin Ambassadors of Music 2018 Tour. Mancl’s other musical projects during this time included singing/acting/dancing roles in the school’s performances of Les Misérables and Newsies; solo and group vocal performances in the school’s variety shows; and playing in his own pop/punk, country/rock, and polka bands.
Mancl got their compositional start in high school, with ‘Translucent’ and ‘August Wind’ for wind ensembles both being awarded high scores at State Solo & Ensemble. He also composed drumline cadences and a pep-band tune for his alma mater.
While at Luther College, Mancl was a member of Jazz Orchestra, Jazz Band, Jazz Combo, Norskkor, and Cathedral Choir. They also performed with and arranged for Driftless Jazz Ensemble. Additionally, they often collaborated with friend and mentor Jon Ailabouni on various projects around Decorah.
Mancl continued their compositional journey at Luther, writing original literature for soloists, chamber ensembles, jazz ensembles, and electronics, as well as arranging music for their various ensembles. Mancl’s music has been featured in recitals and performances around campus.
Mancl performed in the pit orchestra for the Clinton Area Showboat Theatre’s 2021 season. Their productions included Always… Patsy Cline, Smokey Joe’s Café, and All Shook Up.
While at CSU Chico, Mancl earned spots in Jazz Xpress, Jazz Two, and Jazz Combo. They wrote and arranged pieces for their group, Outta Pocket. Mancl also made their sound designer debut, creating an original score for a production of No Exit directed by Gabriella Saxon.