Michelle MJ Nelson

Michelle Nelson has been an adjunct instructor of music at Messiah University since 2024, where she teaches the Woodwind Methods course each fall to sophomore music education majors. She has been a music educator in the Central Dauphin School District, initially serving as an elementary vocal music teacher from 1999 to 2004 and then as the band director and general music teacher at Linglestown Middle School from 2004 to the present. Passionate about fostering musical excellence, she has guided countless students in developing a lifelong love of music.

In addition to her work in the public school system, Ms. Nelson has mentored more than twenty student teachers—most from Messiah University—playing a vital role in shaping the next generation of educators through hands-on instruction and professional guidance.

She earned her undergraduate degree in music education from Millersville University and graduated summa cum laude with a master’s degree in education from Cabrini University. Ms. Nelson is an active member of the National Association for Music Education (NAfME), the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA), and the Dauphin County Music Educators Association (DCMEA). She lives in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, with her husband and son.

• B.S. Ed. - Millersville University 1999
• Masters of Education - Cabrini University 2011

• Woodwind Methods