Nicholas D. Crist holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Cello Performance from Concordia College in Moorhead, MN, where he studied with Dr. Gregory Hamilton. During his time at Concordia, he served as Principal Cellist of the Emmy Award–winning Concordia Orchestra and performed with the ensemble both nationally and internationally. He later earned a Master of Music degree in Cello Performance from the University of Nevada–Las Vegas under the guidance of Dr. Andrew Smith, where he held a Graduate Assistantship in Cello Performance. While at UNLV, Nicholas was Principal Cellist of the UNLV Symphony Orchestra and a founding member of the Aeon String Quartet. He has participated in masterclasses with renowned artists including Emilio Colón, Frank Huang, Matthew Hunter, the Miro Quartet, and the Telegraph Quartet.

Nicholas currently teaches cello at the University of Minnesota–Morris, performs with the Fargo–Moorhead Symphony Orchestra, and serves as Director of Ensembles at Advent Lutheran Church in Maple Grove.

At the Anthem Academy of Music, Nicholas teaches students of all ages and levels. His approach emphasizes a healthy, natural, and relaxed technique, helping students develop both confidence and artistry on the cello.