Justin Nielsen

Justin Nielsen, co-founder of ArtsWest School, has been a major figure in the Treasure Valley music scene for many years. A multi-dimensional musician and educator, he is equally at home playing, composing, or teaching a wide array of musical styles.

In all of these capacities, Justin has been called upon to perform or give workshops at Universities, Festivals, and Conventions around the country, including the Gene Harris Jazz Festival, the International Festival of Creative Pianists, The National Band Association Convention to name a few.

He is a two-time winner at the Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival and a selectee for the Young Composer's Competition. As a freelancer, Justin has been called to play with jazz greats Kevin Mahogany, John Stowell, Mike Vax, Brent Jensen, Jeff Baker, Sandon Mayhew, Jay Lawrence, and many others.

Philosophy

"I believe that the Arts are for everybody. Whether you are planning on becoming a doctor, teacher, or start your own business, you cannot afford to go through life without understanding the joy of creating art. It is important for students to be invited into a positive, inclusive, creativity-fostering environment where they can be encouraged to grow as an artist. This is an exciting experience that can nourish every facet of a person's life: personal, academic, spiritual, and social. As a teacher, it is my job to create that environment, sit back, and watch students do more than they ever thought they could."