Nancy Leinonen Howells is a teacher with 23 years of experience teaching classical and Broadway styles, in both private and institutional settings.  Nancy earned degrees from Central Michigan University and the University of Michigan, where she completed her Doctor of Musical Arts degree. While in Ann Arbor, Nancy served as adjunct instructor, teaching students in the music theater and music education programs, as well as serving as co-instructor for the vocal pedagogy course for two years. 

Nancy performed throughout Michigan, where she appeared with the Northwestern Michigan Symphony Orchestra, the Central Michigan University Orchestra, and as soprano soloist with the University of Michigan Percussion Ensemble.  She received many awards and honors, including the Detroit Music Study Club’s award for 1990-1991, and a state of Michigan merit scholarship.  She was selected as a concerto/aria winner at Central Michigan University for 1984 and 1985, and was also selected as a performer for the 1984 Triennial Conference of Delta Omicron. 

Dr. Howells’ professional affiliations include membership in CAMSA, life-membership in Delta Omicron, and membership in NATS, in which she is currently serving as membership chair for the NATS-Boston chapter.  Nancy is currently serving as faculty member at Indian Hill Music School; as adjunct faculty at Fitchburg State College, and teaches in the Weston (MA) public school after-school music program.  She also maintains a private studio in her home in Maynard, MA. 

Principal teachers include:  Dan Sullivan, Mary Stewart Kiesgen, Linda Pierce Hunter.  Ongoing career development has included a vocal pedagogy seminar with Richard Miller in Oberlin, and the first of the series of McClosky seminars.  Nancy has performed in masterclasses for Carol Webber, Irma Cooper, Gianna Rolandi, and Richard Miller, among others.