NSA Chamber Orchestra
The NSA Chamber Orchestra (NSACO) is built on the belief that every child deserves access to world-class music education. As part of this program, every orchestra member receives free weekly 30-minute private lessons with some of the best musicians in Las Vegas—professional performers who have played with leading orchestras and on the biggest stages. Through regular rehearsals and performances, students grow not only as musicians but also as collaborators, leaders, and members of a vibrant artistic community. NSACO represents our commitment to making high-quality training affordable, inspiring, and accessible to families across the Las Vegas Valley.
Interested in joining? Please read HOW TO APPLY and then apply below.
Announcements:
Applications are open for 2025-2026.
Students must fill out the application form and get a recommendation from their current orchestra teacher or contact Dr. Chuck Cushinery regarding alternative arrangements.
NSACO Faculty
Music Director - Dr. Chuck Cushinery
Dr. Chuck Cushinery, Music Director of the Nevada School of the Arts Chamber Orchestra, is a four-time Grammy Music Educator Award nominee who has led student ensembles to national recognition, including performances at Carnegie Hall, Disney World, and the prestigious Midwest Clinic. As Director of Orchestras at Clark High School, he grew the program from just 39 students to over 400, earning consistent superior ratings and a Grand National Champion Award at the ASTA National Orchestra Festival. A former professional violinist, Dr. Cushinery is passionate about mentorship, musical excellence, and expanding opportunities for young musicians to thrive.
Rodrigo Corral - Assistant Conductor
Scott Jackson
Scott Jackson has appeared at Carnegie Hall with The New World Symphony, performed chamber music nationwide with the ensemble All of the Above, and toured internationally with The Sphinx Virtuosi. He has also collaborated with major orchestras and renowned artists across the United States, establishing a career that bridges performance, education, and artistic leadership.
Omar Shelly
Omar, a Las Vegas-born violist trained at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music and the University of Michigan, has performed at Carnegie Hall and across New York as a founding member of The Orchestra Now, held a section position with the Las Vegas Philharmonic, and now performs and teaches widely in Las Vegas with leading arts organizations and youth ensembles.
Ai Melby
Ai, a Tokyo-born violist trained at the Tokyo National University of Fine Arts and Music and Northern Illinois University, has performed with the Chicago Symphony, the Grant Park Orchestra, and as principal violist with the Civic Orchestra of Chicago. She has appeared at major festivals and now brings her performance and teaching experience to Nevada School of the Arts.
Why Join NSA Chamber Orchestra?
NSACO helps young musicians build ensemble skills, leadership, and confidence through high-level chamber orchestra training. Students receiving private instruction bring these enhanced skills—like stronger listening, rhythm, and musicality—back to their school and youth orchestras, raising the level of their entire ensemble while growing as artists and collaborators.
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NSA SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Nevada School of the Arts is committed to providing a high-quality music and arts education that is affordable and available to all families in our community.
THE NEVADA SCHOOL OF THE ARTS IMPACT
NSA IS LOCATED AT
THE HISTORIC FIFTH STREET SCHOOL
A Cultural Oasis in the Heart of Downtown
The school, built in 1936, is a rare example of Mission-style architecture. The single-story building consists of a series of concrete wings connected by tile roofed arcades. Originally housing one of Clark County's first elementary schools, it was recently renovated for use as a cultural oasis in the heart of downtown.
SUPPORT ARTS EDUCATION
Your support of our scholarship fund provides all students, regardless of economic background, the necessary support to pursue an education in the arts.
“K. is currently a junior in high school at the Las Vegas Academy of the Arts and a Piano major at NSA. His love for piano started when he was in 6th grade. That was his toughest year. You see, K. has autism, ADHD, and was later diagnosed as being twice exceptional. From day one since he set foot in school, he became a constant visitor to the principal’s office.
From years of trying to figure out what can help with his behavior, his therapist pointed us to music. He initially started with viola, he was a fast learner, but that wasn’t his cup of tea. As fate would have it, his then viola teacher also had a piano in her house. K. requested to play with it one day and ever since then, he never stopped. His fears and anxiety all disappear once he starts playing the piano. It became his most effective therapy and outlet. His happy place. This once angry, impatient, and defiant young boy has transformed into a calm, polite and compassionate teenager.
He was able to accomplish being a beginner pianist to advance in a matter of 2 years. He hopes to someday grace the concert halls of Juilliard and play his favorite classical music.”