Hometown:
Albany, New York
Education:
Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, Master of Music in Viola Performance, 2025
Baldwin Wallace University, Bachelor of Music in Viola Performance, 2023
Bio:
Sarah Nichols is currently in the first year of her Masters at the Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, where she received a full tuition scholarship to study with Dr. Catharine Lees. She received her Bachelor's degree from Baldwin Wallace University, under the tutelage of Cleveland Orchestra violist Lembi Veskimets. In addition to playing music, Sarah loves cooking, spending time with friends, being outside, and soaking up everything life has to offer.
What inspired you to become a musician?
Music has been a constant companion throughout my life. Listening to music was a way for me to spend my free time and talking about music was a way I related to other people. I don’t know if I ever decided to become a musician, I think I always was one.
Name three of your favorite composers:
Picking an all-time favorite is hard, but lately I have been moved by Benjamin Britten's “Lachrymae: Reflections on a Song of Dowland.” It is a piece I have known for a long time, but did not fully appreciate until I had the chance to perform it earlier this year. Now when I hear Lachrymae, I am struck by the arc of the final variation and its seamless transition into the reverent Dowland tune.
What is an interesting fact about you and/or your instrument?
An interesting thing about me is that I love to make things. When I’m not using my hands to practice or perform, I’m usually using them to cook or crochet or sew. Just like in music, I’m always chasing new inspiration.
When taking a break from music-making, what is your favorite thing to do?
I love spending time outside, especially finding a sunny spot of grass to relax in.
Why did you choose the NRO?
I chose the NRO because I love being in an orchestra and I love Colorado. Performing with the NRO in such a beautiful place seemed like the perfect way to spend my summer!