Viola & Violin
Ms. Nicole Felker
Viola & Violin Instructor
About Ms. Nicole
Ms. Nicole is a violist and dedicated music educator pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Viola Performance at West Virginia University, where she studies with Andrea Houde. She previously earned a Professional Performance Certificate from Penn State University, a Master of Music in Viola Performance from The Hartt School, and a Bachelor of Music in Viola Performance from Butler University. She has also completed extensive Suzuki teacher training for violin and viola.
Passionate about helping students develop both strong technical foundations and a lifelong love of music, Ms. Nicole combines traditional and Suzuki teaching approaches to create engaging, individualized lessons for students of all ages and experience levels. Her teaching emphasizes musical growth, confidence, creativity, and a positive learning environment that encourages each student to achieve their personal best.
Teaching Experience & Leadership
Graduate Teaching Assistant
Ms. Nicole has taught violin and viola students in both traditional and Suzuki programs throughout her career. She previously served as a Traditional and Suzuki Violin and Viola Instructor at The Music Academy in State College, Pennsylvania, where she also held the role of Suzuki Program Coordinator. In addition, she has taught at Summit Music Studios and worked with students through the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra. She currently serves as a Viola Graduate Assistant at West Virginia University, supporting instruction and activities within the WVU Viola Studio.
Performance Experience
Nicole's exceptional talent has earned him recognition across continents and opportunities to learn from world-renowned musicians:
An active performer, Ms. Nicole has appeared as a soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral violist with ensembles including the Altoona Symphony Orchestra, Pennsylvania Chamber Orchestra, Nittany Valley Symphony, and Williamsport Symphony Orchestra. She has performed in chamber music festivals in the United States and abroad, premiered contemporary works, and participated in opera, ballet, and musical theater productions. Her diverse performance background enriches her teaching and helps students connect technical skills with expressive musical artistry.