Niki Mousikos is a life long student of music, starting piano at age 6 and viola at age 10. Mousikos translates to music in greek, so it must be in the genes! In 5th grade, she began playing viola in the elementary public school orchestra under the direction of one of our very own conductors, Kathy Finn. Her orchestra participation continued into community college.

Inheriting the teaching gene from her mother, Niki chose a career in music education. She received her Bachelor of Music Education at Florida State University in 2010. She studied with world class musicians and pedagogues, both at the community college level and university level. Under the direction of piano professor Heidi Williams, a Peabody Conservatory graduate and international concert pianist, Niki gained valuable insight into the importance of technique and performance. While taking classes for her music education degree, she studied fundamental orchestra pedagogy with a leading source in string education, Michael Allen. Professor Allen developed The Essential Elements series, which you might see at any local music shop.

Ms. Mousikos taught in the Brevard Public School system for 5 years, serving as music teacher at Mims Elementary. There she taught Choir, 5th grade beginning orchestra, 6th grade intermediate orchestra, and K-6 general music classes.  Currently, she gives beginner to intermediate violin/viola/cello lessons at a private studio in Ormond Beach. She enjoys playing music around town and composing.  She is grateful for the opportunity to teach with the FYO in the 2019-2020 school year!