Nathan Leyland, born in Butler, Pennsylvania, began his cello studies at the age of 9 in the public schools of Lynchburg,VA. Nathan attended the Manhattan School of Music where he studied with Nathaniel Rosen. Mr. Leyland made his debut as a soloist with the Hartford Symphony Orchestra, at the age of 18 and has performed as featured soloist numerous times, including appearances with the Manchester Symphony Orchestra, Des Moines Symphony Orchestra, Welsh Hills Chamber Orchestra, Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra and others.
Nathan began his career as a chamber musician in 1997 at the age of 20, serving as the cellist in the Pioneer String Quartet. In addition to that appointment, he was principal cellist of The Des Moines Symphony Orchestra. Mr. Leyland moved to North Carolina in 2001 and has been performing regularly with the areas professional ensembles such as the North Carolina Symphony, Carolina Ballet, North Carolina Opera, North Carolina Master Chorale, and the Choral Society of Durham. Currently, he is principal cellist of the North Carolina Opera, Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra, and a member of The Mallarme Chamber Players. Nathan performs frequently as recitalist and chamber music collaborator and can be heard in venues in and out of the state.
As an educator, in addition to teaching at DUSS, Mr. Leyland is on the Fine Arts faculties of Ravenscroft School, St. Mary’s School, and he also maintains a studio of private students.
