New Zealand–Taiwanese pianist Nicole Chao completed her graduate studies at the New Zealand School of Music Te Kōkī, Victoria University of Wellington, under the mentorship of American pianist Prof. Thomas Hecht. She is a laureate of numerous national and international awards and scholarships, including from the North Queensland Piano and Instrumental Concerto Competition in Australia and the Kapiti Coast National Piano Competition. Nicole has established herself as a versatile and expressive performer, both as a soloist and a collaborative artist.

As a soloist and chamber musician, Nicole performs to critical acclaim. A reviewer from the Kapiti Observer described her as "an immaculate pianist" who "displayed great strength.” Other New Zealand critics have praised her for a “dazzling display of speed, agility, and clarity,” and for a “sense of high romanticism [that] was rewarding.” She is a sought-after chamber musician, regularly performing with members of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, New Zealand String Quartet, and Orchestra Wellington. She is a founding member of the celebrated Duo Enharmonics, a piano duo known for their extensive national performances and tours.

In addition to her performance career, Nicole is a dedicated teacher, coach, and mentor, fostering the next generation of pianists and chamber musicians. She has coached several ensembles to the national finals of the NZCT Chamber Music Contest, including prize-winning groups and recipients of the Joan Kerr National Award. Nicole has also served on the contest’s adjudicating panel, where she shares her insight and passion to support and inspire young musicians across Aotearoa.