Nigel North was initially inspired into music, at age 7, by the early 60's instrumental pop group The Shadows. Nigel studied classical music through the violin and guitar, eventually discovering his real path in life, the lute when he was 15. Basically self-taught on the lute, he has (for over 30 years) developed a unique musical life which embraces activities as a teacher, accompanist, soloist, director, and writer. Nigel North is Professor of Lute at the Early Music Institute at Indiana University.