Work with Nisan Ak Conductor • Educator • Creator

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 
• Wind Ensemble & Pep Band 
• Social Media for Musicians  

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.

WHY DICTATION CLUB

Frankly, I had a bad experience when I was first learning dictation and solfège in high school. My teachers did not pair the ear training portion with the theory portion, and they expected us to "just hear." I thought I was untalented and had a terrible time.

Luckily for me, I was able to study under great professors after that experience and reshape how I hear. But I do remember how bad it feels to question your talent. Because hearing is very fundamental and personal to all musicians.

Ear training is all about internalizing theory and applying it by using tools. And with targeted exercises, any music student can improve.

So I am very passionate about teaching these tools to young musicians who are excited to get better.