Nicole Swanson has enjoyed a multifaceted career in the performing arts and higher education. Highlights include Assistant Principal Violist with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and Symphony San Jose, Teaching Artist for the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Manager of Community Engagement Programs at the Colburn School Conservatory of Music, and interim viola professor at the University of Minnesota. Nicole has performed in venues from coast to coast including Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, Disney Concert Hall, and the Miss America stage. Out-of-the-box freelance gigs include performing at the Academy Awards Governors Ball and with the Black Eyed Peas on American Idol. At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Nicole hosted and produced “The Intentional, Effective Music Teacher,” an interview series with leaders in music education, social justice, neuroscience, and mindfulness.

In 2021, Nicole received a Master’s degree from Stanford University Graduate School of Business with a Certificate in Public Management and Social Innovation. A strong believer in the transformative power of the arts, education, and philanthropy for individuals and communities alike, Nicole recently launched Forza Tutti, an organization dedicated to democratizing music education. In her spare time, Nicole enjoys experimenting with gluten-free recipes, having strong opinions, and avoiding the minefield of Legos in her living room.