Residencies
Mr. Nelson is available as an Artist in Residence to come to your Portland area school and work with your children.  In order to
book Mr. Nelson, please email nelson@musicalkidsonstage.com.

Composer Ralph Nelson has written numerous shows for
children and is in demand as an Artist-in-Residence
throughout the Portland area.  A graduate of Amherst College
and subsequently a composition student of Nadia Boulanger in
France, Nelson has served in many capacities since moving to
Portland, Oregon over 25 years ago.  For 22 years, he was a
member of the administrative staff of the Oregon Symphony,
and then became Executive Director of the Portland
Symphonic Choir.   

Ralph's passion is working with and composing for children.  
In 2002, Ralph gave up his career in orchestra management in
order to devote his full time to working with children.  With
literally hundreds of original songs, plus 5 one-hour shows, he
works with 20 schools per year as an artist in residence,
reaching over 2000 children each year.  

In addition to composing and teaching, Nelson is the founder
and artistic director of the Bach Cantata Choir of Portland.
Choir Director at First Immanuel Lutheran Church in NW
Portland and  Director of the Holladay Park Plaza Singers (30
seniors).  Both Ralph and his wife Susan sing with the Portland
Symphonic Choir.  In the summer, Ralph sings with
Mastersingers USA, an all-male group under the direction of
former Amherst College Professor Bruce McInnes.
Ralph C. Nelson
Composer and Artist in Residence