2015 Scholar-in-Residence: Dan Nichols

Dan Nichols is a singular talent in the world of Jewish music. He is one of the most dynamic, influential and beloved Jewish musicians in North America. Dan’s melodies have become an integral part of the spiritual and liturgical experience of countless individuals and Jewish communities. Dan’s anthology includes a wide range of sounds and styles, from energetic Jewish rock anthems to moving interpretations of traditional Jewish liturgy. In 1995, Dan established the Jewish rock band Eighteen. They have released eight full-length studio albums, each receiving critical acclaim.

Dan spends more than 180 days each year on the road, where he often serves as artist-in-residence for congregations and camp communities. In 2011, Dan created the Road to Eden Deep South Sukkot Tour to bring the music and message of Sukkot to communities in the southern US, where he and his band played 11 shows in 10 days. Their experiences are captured in the 2013 film, Road to Eden.

Dan has been featured at conferences and conventions of nearly every major Jewish movement, including the URJ Biennial, NFTY Convention, BBYO International, and Limmud. In addition to his remarkable musical talents, Dan is a gifted teacher. He has served on the faculty of Hava Nashira since 2000. In 2009 he co-founded Shulhouse Rock, a songleading workshop for Jewish high-school students.

Dan lives in Raleigh, North Carolina with his wife Elysha and his daughter Ava.