Nicolas Merle is a tuba player pursuing a Master's in tuba performance. He received his undergraduate degree at Western Washington University with Carla Rutschman, Ph.D. and Professor Peder MacLellan. At WWU, Nicolas performed with the Western Symphony Orchestra, the Western Wind Ensemble, Heavy Metal Low Brass Ensemble, Haven Brass Quartet, Western Brass Quintet and the New Music Ensemble. He also participated in community groups in Bellingham and Seattle, including Whatcom Wind Ensemble (as a trombonist and also a tuba soloist), Skagit Symphony, Bayshore Symphony and the Seattle Philharmonic. Nicolas has worked with many students in marching programs as well as the Maple Valley Youth Symphony Orchestra in his hometown. Nicolas plans to be a symphony tubist as well as teach with a private studio or university. He's excited to play music and further his education at University of Idaho!