Nicky Keefover

Nicky Keefover is a saxophonist, conductor, and music educator with a deep love for music. Currently, he serves as Artistic Director and conductor of the WVU Saxophone Ensemble. Bringing his passion to life, Nicky has performed on several occasions with the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra, WVU Wind Symphony, and WVU Symphony Orchestra.

As an educator, Nicky finds joy in guiding students to success. Many have earned spots in the prestigious WV All-State Band, WVU Honor Bands, and secured scholarships at various universities. Beyond the classroom, Nicky generously shares his knowledge as a guest clinician in the region. Collaborating with accomplished musicians, including Grammy award-winning saxophonist Tim McAllister, and renowned pianist Liz Ames, Nicky has gleaned knowledge from true masters of the instrument. As a student of Dr. Jeff Siegfried, Nicky continues to learn and grow, having been part of the American Saxophone Academy and mentored by notable teachers like Otis Murphy, Jon Wintringham and Valentine Kovalev.

Keefover is currently the Alto Chair of Quartet Elakala, which was recently selected as a Semi-Finalist for the prestigious North American Saxophone Alliance Quartet Competition in Stillwater, OK. Prior to that Keefover’s other quartet, the Havok Quartet, was selected to perform at the Navy Band’s International Saxophone Symposium in Washington D.C. Additionally, Keefover was selected for the Eric Domanico Award for Excellence in Saxophone Artistry, the River Cities Symphony Orchestra’s Young Artist Competition, and the Andrew and Amy Vaughan Fellowship Competition, where he later went on to serve as an adjudicator.

Above all, Nicky is passionate about the enjoyment of music both as an art and passtime and loves to share his passion with others, whether as a teacher or performer. Nicky has worked with students of all ages, and backgrounds.

His professional memberships include: North American Saxophone Alliance