Nicholas Trygstad

A native of Minneapolis, USA, Nicholas came to Manchester to study cello with Hannah Roberts and Ralph Kirshbaum at the Royal Northern College of Music. As a student he won many awards and prizes, most notably 3rd prize in the LSO Competition, performing the Schumann Concerto with the LSO, and the RNCM’s Gold Medal.

Having previously been Principal Cellist of the Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Nick became Principal Cellist of the Hallé Orchestra in 2005, a position he held until 2024. He also has guest led the Royal Northern Sinfonia, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, Manchester Camerata, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, BBC Scottish Symphony, Welsh National Opera, Philharmonia, and Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra. A passionate educator, Nick has taught for many years at the RNCM and regularly tutors the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain and NYO Inspire.

In addition to his education work, Nick still performs regularly in recitals, chamber music and as a guest principal with orchestras around the UK.