Nicholas Canellakis ’08 MM to Join NEC Cello Faculty in Fall 2027

Renowned cellist and NEC alum Nicholas Canellakis ’08 MM will join the NEC cello faculty in Fall 2027. An internationally acclaimed performer, composer, educator, and filmmaker, Canellakis brings a multifaceted artistic career to NEC, where he will teach a studio of eight to ten students. 

“It’s very meaningful for me to be returning to New England Conservatory, where I pursued my master’s degree and grew enormously as a musician,” Canellakis says. 

He also expressed his excitement about joining NEC’s distinguished cello faculty, of which includes his former teacher, Paul Katz.

Canellakis performs internationally as a soloist and chamber musician and is a longtime artist of the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center. His performance highlights include appearances with orchestras across the United States and at major venues such as Carnegie Hall, Wigmore Hall, and Alice Tully Hall. Alongside his performing career, he has gained a global following for his comedic short-form videos, which have amassed more than 40 million views across various digital platforms. He also serves as artistic director of Chamber Music Sedona and on the cello faculty of the Curtis Institute of Music.

NEC Dean and Chief Artistic Officer Hank Mou welcomes Canellakis’s appointment, highlighting his imagination, entrepreneurial spirit, and ability to connect with audiences across generations. His return to NEC reflects the conservatory’s commitment to nurturing musicians whose creativity and versatility extend across performance, education, and artistic practice.

We are excited to have you back on campus, Nicholas!