Leah Nelson is a dynamic violist, sought-after educator, and arts leader based in Austin, Texas. With a career spanning over two decades, she has built a multifaceted practice as a performer, chamber coach, nonprofit director, and advocate for youth music education.She earned her Master of Music in Viola Performance from the University of Southern California and her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Austin. As an orchestral player, Leah has performed with the Austin Symphony Orchestra, Austin Opera, New West Symphony, and the American Youth Symphony, with whom she toured to Carnegie Hall and Walt Disney Concert Hall.

 

​An active chamber musician, Leah was a founding member of the Felix and Left Coast String Quartets and has performed on numerous concert series across Texas with classical artists in both established ensembles and project-based settings.

 

​Leah has shared the stage with artists across a wide range of genres, including Yo-Yo Ma, Andrea Bocelli, and the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. She has recorded for film, television, and studio albums, appearing on the soundtracks to the films Bernie and Loving, as well as projects with Austin-based composers and bands such as Black Pumas, Devotchka, Yellowcard, and Nori.​

 

Leah served as both Executive Director and Director of Education for Salon Concerts, where she led the CHAMPS (Chamber Music in Public Schools) program, bringing weekly coaching and performance opportunities to students across the Austin area. She maintains a vibrant private studio and is committed to helping young violists grow with strong fundamentals, artistic expression, and confidence in their musical voice.​

 

E-mail: leahceleste@gmail.com