James Nickell (on leave)

James Nickell is an accomplished percussionist and timpanist whose performances span
orchestras across the United States. He is currently a tenured Section Percussionist with
the Boise Philharmonic and has appeared as a substitute with renowned ensembles
including the San Francisco Symphony, Colorado Symphony, New World Symphony,
New Mexico Philharmonic, and the Colorado Music Festival.

He has also appeared at leading summer festivals. At the Aspen Music Festival and
School, he performed as a percussion fellow in 2020 and 2022, and in 2023 was awarded
the prestigious Charlie Owen Fellowship. His festival experience also includes
performances with the Mendocino Music Festival, Vancouver Symphony Orchestral
Institute, and the Colorado Music Festival.

James holds a Professional Studies Certificate and a Master’s degree in Percussion
Performance from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, as well as a Bachelor’s
degree from the University of Denver’s Lamont School of Music. His artistry reflects
both a deep commitment to orchestral tradition and a passion for bringing percussion to
new audiences.