Grammy Nominee to Lead Local Church Music and Arts Program
CASTLE ROCK, Colo. – April 1, 2024 – An exciting new director will be leading the faithful in musical praise in suburban Douglas County. New Hope Presbyterian Church in Castle Rock introduced Johnny Nichols, Jr. as its new Director of Music and Arts, effective April 1.
Nichols, originally from Louisiana, brings a wealth of talent, experience and enthusiasm to New Hope, and the greater Castle Rock community. He holds a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Music Performance and a Master of Music in Choral Conducting from American University, University of Louisiana Monroe, and Texas Southern University. He recently relocated from Boston to Colorado, where he also serves as the Artistic and Managing Director for the Denver Gay Men's Chorus.
Prior to moving to Colorado, Nichols led the choir and praise band at Aldersgate United Methodist Church in North Reading, Massachusetts. His career has included directing numerous adult and youth choirs, handbell ensembles, church theater productions, and orchestras in worship services. Nichols also led the Ipswich River Community Chorus, Me2/Boston Chorus and Boston Children's Chorus and served as Assistant Conductor and Director of Education for the Boston Gay Men's Chorus.
An active clinician and adjudicator, Nichols has led honor choirs in Louisiana, Texas, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Colorado. He was a GRAMMY nominee for his role in "X: The Life and Times of Malcolm X" and has performed for presidents including George H.W. Bush, George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Bill Clinton. In addition to conducting ensembles and stage directing plays and musicals, Nichols teaches voice lessons and arranges choral music.
“New Hope is excited to welcome the energy, talents, and expertise of Johnny Nichols, Jr., to our impressive choir and vibrant music ministry,” said Rev. Caressa Murray, senior pastor. “Johnny's breadth and depth in various musical genres, ensembles, choirs, theater, and instruments will invigorate and enrich people's worship experience.”
The first choir performance under Nichols’ direction will be Sunday, April 14th. New Hope welcomes everyone to its services as well as music and drama performances. Sunday service is at 9:30 a.m. onsite and online. More information is available at newhopepres.org.