Nicole Barnhart, 18, started playing violin at the age of 5. Valedictorian of her graduating class, she is currently in 12 th grade as a virtual student. She was a member of Houston Youth Symphony (HYS) for 3 years, where she was concertmaster under Carolyn Vandiver and Ann Victor, and currently studies violin under Mrs. Natasha Cerrone. Nicole also enjoys engaging in public service, such as playing for retirement homes and underprivileged communities to bring music and joy to their lives. A Brazilian native, she enjoys speaking Portuguese with her parents, along with Spanish and German. When she is not practicing, she enjoys figure skating, doing Bible studies with her mom, as well as cooking and baking.

2021–2023