Nicolas Dominguez is a classically trained bassist from San Antonio, Texas. He currently plays with Foam Star and the Finger Lickin’ Pickers, two Austin based bands.
Condition(s) & Date(s) of Treatment:
Nicolas’ first two surgeries were completed in Spring and Summer of 2021. These two treated the basal joint arthritis he had in both of his thumbs from practicing upright bass. He later had a carpal tunnel release surgery on his left hand in 2023. All of these injuries were caused from overuse while practicing and playing.
What inspired you to start playing music?
My parents are responsible for my musical upbringing. Growing up I listened to all kinds of music with my family in the car and at home.
Who are some of your musical inspirations
Radiohead, of course. Cursive, Joy Division, Delta Sleep, Coheed and Cambria, Fugazi, My teachers Daxun Zhang and Joel Braun. Dimitri Shostakovich, Pyotr Tchaikovsky, Jean Sibelius, Leonard Bernstein, Aaron Copeland, Gustav Mahler,
What was the injury that brought you to MTF and how did the injury affect your music?
In the early stages of the COVID 19 the arthritis in my thumbs had become so painful to the point that I stopped practicing. It was a pretty depressing and isolating time of my life.
What was your experience with receiving care through MTF and your recovery afterward?
The care from MTF was the best I’ve ever experienced. I have never had a team of medical professionals so compassionate and capable of listening as well as the staff at Pinnacle Surgery Center. Previous Orthopedists and General Practitioners had very little to offer for managing my pain and navigating my diagnosis.
What’s coming up for you?
I’m moving! I got a job in Vancouver, Washington which is just north of Portland, Oregon. I’m excited to start fresh and join a new community of musicians.
Where can people find out more about you and your music?
You can find Foam Star and the Finger Lickin’ Pickers on all of the streaming platforms and my future projects will be shared on my Instagram @nicolas_contrabass.