About the duo

Two musicians, one easygoing point of view.

Nick Simmons: Guitar Roy Gattinella: Piano A professional musician his entire life, Nick is also an educator and the co-founder of a non-profit that brings music performance to the lives of young adults. He's shared the stage with Chris Isaak, Alanis Morrisette, and is a sought after guitarist throughout California. Roy spent his early musical years with the Windham Hill record label. He currently hosts an NPR music show, "Groove Theory" and is a professor at Santa Rosa Junior College. Roy's played in numerous bands, some with his own heroes like Jack Sonni (Dire Straits) and Bill Spooner (The Tubes).

The Music Dept. performing guitar and keyboard outdoors
A conversation, in song.

Our approach

A set built around the room.

Sonoma Rhythm Section began with a shared belief: live music works best when it feels personal. The duo brings attentive musicianship, an unforced warmth, and a feel for what a moment needs next.

Whether the setting is a vineyard at golden hour, a ceremony under the trees, or a long-table dinner, every set is shaped to support the rhythm of the occasion.

The musical language

Familiar songs, thoughtfully recast.

01

Acoustic with atmosphere

Expect a well relaxed instrumental palette that lives comfortably in the room.

02

A repertoire with range

Well-loved classics, modern favorites, and fresh arrangements selected with the crowd in mind.

03

Experience without excess

A polished, low-lift setup and thoughtful communication that makes planning music feel easy.

The music should feel like it belongs there.

From the first planning note through the final song, Sonoma Rhythm Section makes space for connection, conversation, and a celebration that sounds distinctly like yours.

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