Mission Success! Former MFM Students

Nicky Gelman

Nicky Gelman, MFM student from 1994-1998, began on the clarinet in the Los Altos elementary schools’ instrumental program, and progressed to saxophone, playing in the symphonic and jazz bands, as well as Wind Ensemble through high school. Nicky also sang in the chorus from first through sixth grades, before moving onto extensive singing at Los Altos High School, ultimately becoming a member of the elite Main Street Singers.  Along the way Nicky studied guitar—electric and acoustic—and became the primary campfire song leader for the Palo Alto Family YMCA''s resident camp in the Sierras.

While attending Duke University, Nicky pursued a pre-medical education with a minor in music.  He continued to develop his jazz saxophone skills through both private lessons and ensemble work.  Singing, however, became his primary focus after he successfully auditioned for the Pitchforks of Duke University during his first week at college.  The Pitchforks are one of the nation''s leading a cappella groups whose past two albums have each won the CARA Award for Best Male Collegiate Album.  Nicky performed and toured with the Pitchforks throughout his four years at Duke, and became Music Director his senior year.  He is currently producing their next album, scheduled for release in 2012.  Check him out on YouTube.

During his time at Duke, Nicky also sang with the Vespers Choir, a select group of singers specializing in a cappella Renaissance music. He pursued voice lessons throughout college, and had recitals both junior and senior years, with songs in Spanish, German, Italian, French, Latin, and English.  He recently added Russian to his repertoire through his experience at Chanticleer's Choral Music Camp in Sonoma.