Philosophy of teaching
“Being an organist should start with a love for the instrument and its many possibilities and repertoire in all forms. Teaching the organ should encourage that love, equip students with the skills needed to flourish, and fulfill our responsibility as caretakers of the craft. The best legacy we can leave for students is a commitment to excellence and a life-long desire to learn and become the best musicians we can be.” Nicole Keller

Nicole is on the faculty of the School of Music, Theatre & Dance at the University of Michigan where she also serves as University Organist. She is frequently invited to teach masterclasses and workshops at music schools, universities, and conventions around the country. Her students have been accepted to the top graduate schools in the nation including the The Cleveland Institute of Music, the Eastman School of Music, the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University, the College-Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati, the Yale Institute of Sacred Music, and The University of Pennsylvania. These students are enjoying diverse careers in the field of church music, performance, and composition.

“Professor Keller literally changed the trajectory of my career path, and she did it through her teaching and her attitudes. Her teaching was both exacting and fun, and her demeanor, while exhibiting a certain ease and nonchalance, was nevertheless coupled with a fearless “can-do” attitude, a healthy striving to always be better, and a far-reaching curiosity extended toward fellow organists as well as toward the larger musical community…she made sure that her students were exposed to much more than just the practice room, and this has been essential to my long-term growth as a musician.”

Justin Wallace, former student
Organist, harpsichordist, composer
Assistant Organist, Shadyside Presbyterian Church, Pittsburgh, PA

Organ masterclass at Interlochen Center for the Arts

“She extracts the best from her students and instills in them the tools that will make them successful musicians. Her teaching has made a significant impact on my ability to make a living as a church musician and organist, and even to continue my studies on the doctoral level.”

Dr. Shawn Dawson, former student
Director of Music and Organist, Calvary Episcopal Church, Louisville, KY

“Without the guidance and support of Professor Keller I would likely not be pursuing a PhD in Musicology at the University of Pennsylvania as a Benjamin Franklin Fellow. Her active role in my preparation for graduate school, including her influence on how I think about and work through music, was vital to my continuing education. She holds her students to a high standard—the same standard which I have seen her hold herself to in every aspect of her professional life.”

Chase Castle, former student
Music Director, First Unitarian Church, Philadelphia, PA
PhD candidate, The University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA

Private lesson at Baldwin Wallace Conservatory of Music, Berea, OH