Nicholas Walls is a seasoned philanthropy professional with an extensive track record in donor engagement and major gift fundraising. As Senior Director of Philanthropy at the Seattle Symphony, he led an $8.5 million+ annual individual giving program, securing transformational contributions, including a $3 million major gift and a $2.5 million capital campaign commitment. His leadership resulted in significant revenue growth across multiple seasons.

Prior to his tenure in Seattle, Walls served as Director of Major Gifts at The Philadelphia Orchestra, where he managed a portfolio of over 100 donor households and growing revenue from major donors and securing funding for key education programs from individuals, families, and foundations. His expertise spans major donor pipeline development, board engagement, and data-driven fundraising strategies.

Walls began his career in development with Seattle Opera and The Metropolitan Opera Guild, honing his skills in donor research, patron engagement, and community outreach. A dedicated advocate for the arts, he currently serves as Vice President of the Board of Directors for Ensemble Mise-En in New York City.

Walls holds a Master of Music from Mannes College The New School for Music and a Bachelor of Music from UC Santa Barbara. Nicholas is excited to reconnect with the Santa Barbara community and advance the Music Academy’s mission.