Sandy Nieves, OPYO Manager
Sandy Nieves graduated from the Interlochen Arts Academy in 2005 with high honors and an emphasis in Clarinet Performance and Conducting. There he studied clarinet under Nathan Williams and conducting under Mathew Hazelwood while performing with the Interlochen Academy Symphonic Band. In 2010 he received his Bachelor of the Arts from the University of Arkansas with an emphasis in clarinet performance. During his undergraduate he served as principal clarinet in the U of A Wind Symphony and U of A Symphony Orchestra. He also performed with Inspiration Point Opera Company's 2007 season. In 2008 Sandy was selected as runner-up in the U of A concerto competition, playing an excerpt of the Weber clarinet concerto with the U of A Symphony Orchestra later that year.
In 2015 Sandy began working as conducting assistant to Dr. Robert Mueller while studying conducting with Dr. Janinine Wagar which culminated in conducting performances with the University of Arkansas Symphony Orchestra in 2015, 2016, and 2017. An active lesson teacher, Sandy teaches clarinet, flute, trombone, and baritone students with an emphasis on Alexander Technique. He also serves as Band Director for Arkansas Regional bands, teaching the Fayetteville Regional Bands beginning and advanced ensembles.
Sandy is an alumni of OPYO, serving as principal clarinet from 2002-2004 and winning first place in the orchestra's annual concerto competition. He attributes his time with the orchestra as instrumental in his success as a musician. His first-hand experience with the OPYO mission gives him a unique perspective when serving the OPYO students and families.
Contact: youthorchestras@gmail.com
In 2015 Sandy began working as conducting assistant to Dr. Robert Mueller while studying conducting with Dr. Janinine Wagar which culminated in conducting performances with the University of Arkansas Symphony Orchestra in 2015, 2016, and 2017. An active lesson teacher, Sandy teaches clarinet, flute, trombone, and baritone students with an emphasis on Alexander Technique. He also serves as Band Director for Arkansas Regional bands, teaching the Fayetteville Regional Bands beginning and advanced ensembles.
Sandy is an alumni of OPYO, serving as principal clarinet from 2002-2004 and winning first place in the orchestra's annual concerto competition. He attributes his time with the orchestra as instrumental in his success as a musician. His first-hand experience with the OPYO mission gives him a unique perspective when serving the OPYO students and families.
Contact: youthorchestras@gmail.com