Beginning his musical studies at age 9 and working professionally and exclusively in the performing arts since age 19, John has been a fixture on the regional stages for several decades now. He had a unique training regiment in that he studied instrumental music, vocal music, acting, dance and stage craft simultaneously. His college years were spent as a musical theater major at United States International University, where he shared stages with such international performers as John Barrowman and Eric Bishop (known today as Jaime Fox). It was there that he first met Steven and Elizabeth Wistrich, founding directors of City Ballet of San Diego. He performed as a dancer with the company in its developing years and started the resident music program in 2006. After 20 years of development and networking, Mr. Nettles is honored to be an active advocate for live music on the local stages, restoring many classical art forms to their original styles. He currently serves as Music Director for City Ballet, Artistic Director for Pacific Coast Chorale and Escondido Choral Arts Foundation 

As a composer/arranger, he has commissioned works for City Ballet, Arkansas Symphony, Pacific Coast Chorale and Escondido Choral Arts. He has operated his own production company, A Class Act, since 2007, specializing in musical performance and portable stage logistics. In this capacity, he is the primary logistics coordinator for City Ballet and a frequent contractor for California Center for the Arts Escondido.

Never forgetting his roots, Mr. Nettles is active in education and start up companies. He's been a teaching artist for San Diego Opera, City Ballet and Vista Unified School District.

Recently, he's been a singer, dancer, and consultant for Opera A la Carte, Genesis Opera, Cinballera (Resident Artist), Teatro Lirico de Europa, and has always been quick to offer his skill set wherever it is needed to grow the arts in his own home town.