Nick Rail

Nick Rail was the visionary founder and dedicated president of the Southern California retail chain that proudly bore his name, starting in 1986. Nick began his career in 1974 as a talented and meticulous band instrument repairman at La Grandeur Music. Inspired by his hands-on experience and deep commitment to music education, he opened Nick Rail Music, a welcoming store devoted to supporting school band programs. Each location featured a full-service, expert repair department, reinforcing his passion for quality and service. Under Nick’s enthusiastic leadership, the stores became strong supporters of NAPBIRT, NAMM, and NASMD, with Nick actively encouraging his staff to pursue ongoing training and professional growth through these organizations. After selling the company to Laura Penrose upon his retirement in 2019, Nick redirected his musical passion toward philanthropy, raising funds and awareness for nonprofit organizations, including the Partnership for the Performing Arts. Even in retirement, Nick continues to make a meaningful impact on the musical community.