Piano Lessons with Nicholas S

My name is Nicholas S. I am a West Michigan musician, educator, conductor, and composer with a passion for helping students discover the creativity and joy of music. My musical journey began with playing classical melodies by ear on piano, eventually leading me to study clarinet, saxophone, and pipe organ. Clarinet is now my primary instrument, with piano and organ as secondary instruments.

I have performed in marching, jazz, pep, and concert bands, as well as honors ensembles. I have studied conducting at Grand Valley State University with Dr. Henry Duitman, Dr. John Martin, and Dr. Joel Schut, building more than a decade of experience in conducting and ensemble leadership.

As a composer, I write for a variety of ensembles and have composed music for students and musicians ranging from middle school through college. My works have been performed throughout Michigan and internationally in Europe. My compositional influences include Johann Sebastian Bach, Ludwig van Beethoven, Alfred Reed, John Philip Sousa, and John Williams, reflecting my love of classical, band, and film music.

I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Music Education at Grand Valley State University and am a member of MSBOA and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia. My teaching philosophy is grounded in the belief that every student can grow as a musician through encouragement, purposeful instruction, and a strong foundation in musical fundamentals.

As a Christian, I view music as a gift from God and seek to use my musical abilities to glorify Him while helping students develop confidence, creativity, and a lifelong appreciation for music.