Work with Nisan Ak Conductor • Educator • Creator

I help musicians, conductors, and ensembles bridge the gap between the analytical phase and on-stage readiness.

I look at each project holistically  from score study and structure to communication and audience impact. My process begins at the first rehearsal and ends when the music is fully alive in performance.

My philosophy is simple: all music belongs to all humans.
Though I have a classical background, I see music as a shared language rather than a hierarchy of genres. Whether it is a symphony, a folk tune, or a pop song, every piece has the power to teach us how humans express emotion and connect with one another. My goal as a teacher and conductor is to help students experience that connection for themselves through analysis and creativity. 

For ensembles, collaboration is the key word, not hierarchy. I aim to create environments where every musician feels seen, responsible, and creatively engaged.

Dr. Nisan Ak has taught at Columbia College in Columbia, SC, and at the College of Charleston in Charleston, SC, where she currently serves as conductor of the Wind Ensemble and teaches in the Music Theory, Aural Skills, Conducting, and Music Appreciation curriculum.

Her teaching experience includes:

• Conducting  (baton technique, score study, rehearsal psychology, and leadership development)
• Aural Skills I–IV (solfège, dictation, and analytical listening)
• Fundamentals of Music I&II  (literacy, rhythm, and core musicianship for beginners)
• Music Appreciation  (exploring classical and global traditions through context, storytelling, and active listening)
• Wind Ensemble & Pep Band  (ensemble direction, repertoire curation, and performance preparation)
• Social Media for Musicians  (a course she designed to help artists build visibility and communicate their craft authentically online)

Her approach bridges academic insight and artistic practice, encouraging curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. Whether leading an ensemble or teaching in the classroom, she helps students move from analysis to expression, turning technical understanding into meaningful performance.