2024 Convention Participants

Check a box to sort the schedule by name, title (presenter, judge, etc.) or a combination of search terms. Use the search bar to search by name.
TitleEnsemble NameFirst NameLast NameBiographyWebsite
Junior Flute Choir DirectorPhyllisLoukePhyllis Avidan Louke, an Altus Artist, is principal flute with Tilikum Chamber Orchestra and Oregon Symphonic Band and has been the Music Director for Rose City Flute Choir for over 25 years. She maintains a large private studio and is in demand as a flute clinician and adjudicator. A composer with 70+ pieces, she has co-written an award-winning series of teaching methods with Patricia George.www.phyllislouke.com www.fabulousflute.com
Flute Choir Showcase CoordinatorLindaKirkpatrickLinda Kirkpatrick, Vice President of the FSW, is the Director of Instrumental Music at McDaniel College in Westminster, MD. She has numerous published flute choir arrangements, led flute choir reading sessions at NFA conventions, and has been a member of the NFA Pro Flute Choir. https://www.lindakirkpatrick.com
Competitions CoordiantorKatieRice RogersKatie Rice Rogers is a fife instrumentalist in the U.S. Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps. Originally a flutist, Katie studied with Randi Jean Bly, Dr. Beth Chandler Cahill, Trevor Wye, and Dr. John Bailey. She currently performs with the Columbia Flute Choir. Katie currently serves as the FSW Convention Competitions Coordinator.
High School Flute Choir CoordinatorSusanCarmichael-KerrySusan Carmichael-Kerry, Mid-Atlantic High School Flute Choir coordinator, is an active performer and teacher in Carroll County, Maryland. She earned with DMA at Shenandoah University, studying with international flutist Jonathan Snowden. Previous teachers include Frances Lapp Averitt, Rosalind Stack, and Joel Behrens.www.flutinggoat.com
High School Flute Choir JudgeMehrdadGholmaiDr. Mehrdad Gholami is the Assistant Professor of Flute and chair of woodwinds at Western Washington University. For a complete bio, recordings and projects please visit www.MehrdadGholami.com.www.MehrdadGholami.com
Young Artist Finalist; High School Flute Choir JudgeJenniferSzaboJennifer Szabo is a freelance flutist in DC and NYC. She is the piccolo player for the Northern Neck Orchestra, was a semifinalist for the Maryland Symphony principal flute audition, and regularly substitutes with orchestras in the DC area. She was a finalist for the Army band, Queens College, and NY flute club Young Artist competitions. Her and her husband David (of The U.S. Army Chorus) live in Alexandria. She is a MM student of Julianna Nickel at George Mason University.
Adult Amateur Competition JudgeSusanBourSusan Bour, retired from United States Marine Band, performs with Windward Passage Duo, flute and guitar duo. She is Adjunct Professor at Patrick Henry College, teaches privately, is an active adjudicator.
Adult Amateur Competition Judge; FSW TreasurerSydneeLalwaniSydnee Lalwani is a performer and serial arts board member in the DC area. Serving as president of the Capital Wind Symphony, Treasurer of the FSW, and Executive Director of the Columbia Flute Choir, Sydnee also enjoys playing as a member of chamber and larger ensembles throughout the year.
Adult Amateur Competition Judge; Registration CoordinatorElisabethBerryElisabeth Berry studied flute at CCM (B.Mus.), UC-Santa Barbara (MM), and in the Juilliard Pre-College Program. She is the Membership Director for FSW and plays in DC Flutes. Elisabeth works for Guggenheim Investments in Marketing and holds her MBA from Columbia Business School.
Junior Flute Choir CoordinatorMaggieSuarezMaggie Suarez, is a flutist with the 257th Army Band, "The Band of the Nation's Capital." She also performs with the Washington Metropolitan Gamer Symphony Orchestra. Maggie currently serves as the Mid-Atlantic Junior Flute Choir coordinator,
Guest Artist Masterclass PerformerCaitlinOliverCaitlin Oliver received her MM from the New England Conservatory, where she studied with Cynthia Meyers, and was a member of the NEC Honors Woodwind Quintet. Caitlin previously graduated magna cum laude with her BM from George Mason University where she studied with Julianna Nickel.
Guest Artist Masterclass PerformerGretaHulterstrumGreta Hulterstrum is a sophomore flute performance major studying with Professor Assimakopoulos. Greta currently participates in the WVU Symphony Orchestra and WVU Chamber Winds. Some of Greta’s recent accomplishments include performing in masterclasses with Jasmine Choi and Tara Helen O'Connor.
Guest Artist Masterclass PerformerEmily DeNucciEmily DeNucci, age 17, currently attends the Curtis Institute of Music studying Flute Performance with Jeffrey Khaner. Her past teachers include Greig Shearer and Sonora Slocum. This past summer, she toured North America with Curtis on Tour as well as with Carnegie Hall's National Youth Orchestra.
Collegiate Soloist JudgeAyçaÇetinDr. Ayça Çetin currently serves as a Visiting Lecturer at University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and the Principal Flutist of Panama City Symphony Orchestra. An active freelancer, she also performs with several orchestras such as Atlanta Opera, New Manhattan Sinfonietta and Chattanooga Symphony Orchestra. Dr. Cetin is a Miyazawa Artist.
Collegiate Soloist JudgeKai-ChenChengKai-Chen Cheng is an active soloist and avid educator based in the New York area. She holds the position of Flute Faculty at the Long Island Conservatory and was the Music Director and Competition Adjudicator of the 17th LISMA International Music Competition. Currently, Ms. Cheng is a Doctoral Candidate at the State University of New York at Stony Brook.
Collegiate Soloist JudgeTabathaEasleyTabatha Easley is Associate Professor & Coordinator of Winds at VCU. A former FSW board member and program chair, she has also served as NFA Committees Liaison, Secretary/Asst. Secretary and CFC coordinator. She has performed and taught on six continents. DMA, Eastman; MA, CSULB; BM, UAF www.tabathaeasley.comhttps://www.tabathaeasley.com/
Collegiate Soloist JudgeKellieHenryKellie Henry: Artist Affiliate of Flute - Berry College, teaches privately in NE Metro Atlanta, Vice President/President-Elect of the Atlanta Flute Club, 2nd Flute - Asheville (NC) Symphony, Piccolo - Albany (GA) Symphony [Artist Diploma, Columbus State Univ; BM Performance, Valdosta State Univ.]
Collegiate Soloist JudgeDavidLeDavid Le, DMA, is a performer and educator in Washington, D.C. A laureate of numerous solo competitions, he has given masterclasses and recitals at conferences and universities nationwide. Dr. Le is a Miyazawa Emerging Artist. His teachers include Sarah Frisof, Kim McCormick, and Marina Piccinini.
Collegiate Soloist JudgeAdrienne Tedjamulia ReadAdrienne Tedjamulia Read is an educator and performer in the North Florida area. She teaches at Chipola College and Bethune-Cookman University, and she directs the Florida State University Baroque Ensemble and Ensemble 126.
Collegiate Soloist CoordinatorDebTienDeb Tien is a flutist and educator residing in Alexandria, VA. She previously held the piccolo position with Johnson City Symphony (TN) for 8 seasons before her recent move to Virginia. She has also performed across the US, Europe, and Asia. MM, Florida State University.
Collegiate Soloist PerformerZelinWangZelin Wang, pursuing a BM at Peabody Conservatory under the guidance of Marina Piccinini, exhibits exceptional talent through solo performances and orchestral contributions. She has participated in numerous summer festivals and masterclasses. Her dedication and passion drive her musical journey.
Collegiate Soloist PerformerHannaNohHanna Noh, a senior student of WVU in music performance. She won Music International Grand Prix 1st prize in adult division (2023.04), and New Jersey Flute Fair 1st prize for young artist division (2023.10). Also, she was a winner of Young Artist competition in WVU which allows to perform with WVUSO.
Collegiate Soloist PerformerLarissaHsuLarissa Hsu, a sophomore pursuing a Bachelor of Music in Flute Performance at the University of Maryland, College Park, studies under Dr. Sarah Frisof. Her previous teachers include Elizabeth Shuhan, Amal Gochenour and Leah Arsenault Barrick. Currently, Hsu is a member of the UMD Symphony Orchestra.
Student Honors CoordinatorJessicaBanksJessica Banks serves as flute instructor at Frederick Community College in Frederick, MD. Dedicated to improving access to advanced instruction for all flutists, Dr. Banks provides free resources on social media and offers masterclasses at high schools throughout the country. jessicaleebanks.comjessicaleebanks.com
Student Honors JudgeAlyssaPrimeauAlyssa Primeau is a flutist in the United States Navy Band, and has performed with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, among others. Alyssa holds degrees from Boston University and Oakland University. Her primary teachers have included Linda Toote, Sharon Sparrow and Jeffery Zook.
Student Honors JudgeEmily NazarioEmily Nazario is a flutist and educator based in South Carolina. Recently, Emily was named a quarterfinalist in the National Flute Association's Young Artist Competition in 2023. Emily is currently completing her DMA at the Univ. of Georgia under the tutelage of Angela Jones-Reus.
Student Honors JudgeJessicaPelltierJessica Pelltier is the Flute Professor at Coastal Carolina University and a doctoral student at U of South Carolina. When she isn't teaching at the Positive Playing Studio students, she works at Fluterscooter, and performs with Long Bay Symphony, Florence Symphony, and Opera Wilmington. Jessica received master's degrees from the University of Louisville and her bachelor's degree from Ohio Northern University. Her teachers include Dr. Jennifer Parker-Harley, Kathy Karr, and Dr. Erin Torres.
Student Honors JudgeDanParaskyDan Parasky is a flute teacher and flute choir enthusiast that loves running and all things Star Wars (this is the way) and the Marvel Cinematic Universe . Visit paraskyflutestudios.com for more information. He is serving as the convention flute choir coordinator for NFA through 2025.paraskyflutestudios.com
PresenterAliciaKosackDr. Alicia Kosack teaches applied flute at York College of Pennsylvania and works with flutists of all ages and levels through their YCPrep. She performs as a soloist and chamber musician on both modern and baroque flute, and recently won the 2023 NFA Convention Performers Competition and 2nd place in the 2022 NFA Alto Flute Artist Competition. Alicia previously served as Vice-President of FSW and was the program chair for the 2007 and 2008 Mid-Atlantic Flute Fair.
CollaboratorLaura ArmstrongDr. Laura Armstrong is on faculty at Mount St. Mary’s University where she teaches clarinet and saxophone. She is the clarinetist of the Peacherine Ragtime Society Orchestra and also performs as a freelancer with orchestras in the Mid-Atlantic region and with the Fortunata Duo.
Presenting EnsembleFortunata DuoThe Fortunata Duo, Alicia Kosack, flute; Laura Armstrong, clarinet and saxophone; celebrate the joy and good fortune of performing chamber music as good friends, promoting this unusual medium, and performing works of underrepresented composers. Their performances have included recitals throughout the Mid-Atlantic region, and performances at several conventions including the National Flute Association, Mid-Atlantic Flute Convention, and International Navy Saxophone Symposium.
Young Artist JudgeWhitneyPencinaWhitney Pencina is a freelance flutist in the Raleigh, NC area (2013-present). She has been a regular player with the Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra and an extra with the Boston Symphony Orchestra (2002-2013). Whitney holds a B.M. in Flute Performance and a Performer's Certificate from Indiana University, an M.M. in Flute from Boston University, and an Artist Diploma from the Longy School of Music.
Young Artist JudgeAbbySimoneauDr. Abby Simoneau is on faculty at Alamance Community College and Guilford College. Abby is Second Flute with the Western Piedmont Symphony and Piccolo with the Piedmont Wind Symphony, and Summer 2024 will mark her 12th season with the Southern Illinois Music Festival. Abby earned her DMA from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, a Master of Music degree in Flute Performance from Southern Illinois University Carbondale and her Bachelor of Arts from the University of New Hampshire. Her teachers include Linda True, Peggy Vagts, Douglas Worthen, Carla Copeland-Burns, and Erika Boysen. She also performs regularly with the Salisbury Symphony and Hickory Choral Society.
Young Artist CompetitionCarlaCopeland-BurnsNoted as a flexible and versatile player, flutist Carla Copeland-Burns currently performs with the Greensboro, North Carolina, and Salisbury Symphonies as well as the North Carolina Opera, Carolina Ballet, and with the performer-composer collective Blue Mountain Forecast. She teaches at Duke University, Meredith College, and at the Clazz International Music Festival in Arcidosso, Italy.
Young Artist FinalistLisaChoiFlutist Lisa Choi completed her Bachelor of Music Degree at The Juilliard School, studying with Jeffrey Khaner and Master of Music Degree at Cincinnati Conservatory of Music under Demarre McGill. Ms. Choi has contributed her talent to many ensembles at Juilliard, performing in the Juilliard Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra, Opera, Wind Orchestra, and ChamberFest. Recently, Ms. Choi is in her second year DMA at University of Maryland.
Young Artist FinalistLaura LinLaura Lin was born in Taiwan and began learning the flute at the age of seven. Lin has participated in numerous performances and competitions and is currently pursuing a Master's degree at the University of Iowa
Guest Artist MC CoordinatorSarahCaseySarah Casey is a freelance flutist and flute teacher in Baltimore. She also works as Box Office and Marketing Manager for The Columbia Orchestra, one of the most active community orchestras in the county based in Columbia, MD. Her primary teachers include Diana Morgan, Beth Plunk, Dr. Beth Chandler Cahill, and Alison Sincoff with additional studies with Janet Arms.
Adult Amateur Competition PerformerEliGentleEli Gentle is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Music (BM) degree at the Peabody Conservatory, studying with Marina Piccinini. Born in Texas and raised between Namibia and the United States, Eli began studying piano at age seven and flute at age fourteen. Eli holds a BS in economics degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) and an MA in Arab Studies from Georgetown University. His primary teachers include Lisa Wienhold (Alabama Symphony) and Marina Piccinini.
Adult Amateur Competition PerformerCathieSaadehCathie Saadeh, a lawyer, runner, and a flutist since 4th grade. Taught currently by the wonderful Dr. Meghan Shanley Alger.
Adult Amateur Competition PerformerAndrewTomlinsonAndrew Tomlinson studied with Bonnie Lake. At age 16 he performed as soloist with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. Pursuing parallel interests, Andrew earned degrees in Russian and School Counseling. He taught in Baltimore City Public Schools for many years. Recently, Andrew has studied with Sara Nichols. A member of the Baltimore Flute Choir, Charm City Flutes, and KAJual Flutes, Andrew also plays traditional Irish and Contra-dance music in the band Contretemps and other groups.
Adult Amateur Competition CoordinatorLaura ZabanalDr. Laura Zabanal has performed and taught internationally in the U.S., Europe, and Central America. She is a Fife Instrumentalist in The U.S. Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps, a content creator and copyeditor for KE Creative, and she performs and maintains a private flute studio in NOVA.
Honors Competition JudgeLaurenZwonikLauren Zwonik (she/her), is a flutist from Colchester, VT. She is currently pursuing her DMA at UNLV with John McMurtery, and is the first student awarded with the Graduate Assistantship in Arts Administration with the Las Vegas Philharmonic. She earned her MM at WVU and BM at the Crane School of Music.
PresenterJessica BanksJessica Banks (she/her) serves as flute instructor at Frederick Community College in Frederick, MD. Dedicated to improving access to advanced instruction for all flutists, Dr. Banks provides free resources on social media and offers masterclasses at high schools throughout the country. jessicaleebanks.com
PresenterMorgannDavisMorgann Davis (she/her) teaches at Millersville University of Pennsylvania and Franklin & Marshall College. An active performer, she is also a certified yoga and mindfulness meditation instructor and presents regularly on musician’s wellness. Morgann performs regularly with ensembles including the Lancaster Symphony, Reading Symphony, and Harrisburg Symphony, is principal of the Endless Mountain Music Festival, and owns and operates Davis Flute Studio in Lancaster, PA. www.morgannelycedavis.com
PresenterSandradel Cid-DaviesA native of Northern Virginia, Sandra del Cid-Davies (she/her) was appointed piccolo/flute with the Kennedy Center Opera House Orchestra/Washington National Opera in January 2023. Prior to joining the KCOHO, Sandra performed as the piccoloist with The Florida Orchestra (2017 - 2023) and the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra (2008 - 2017). Sandra received her BM and MM in flute performance from Peabody Conservatory and Northwestern University respectively.
PresenterKeithHanlonDr. Keith Hanlon (he/him) is a professional Flute Technician and Educational Consultant at Flute Authority in Coralville, IA. Low Flutes Artist, and Clinician for Trevor James Flutes. Former US Army Bandsman. Principal flute for the Ottumwa Symphony Orchestra, flutist for the Derecho Wind Quintet, io ensemble (historical flutes), Keystone Wind Ensemble, NFA LGBTQ+ and Iowa City Flute Choirs (contrabass). Co-founder of The Flute Examiner. DMA, WVU; MM, VCU; BA, IUP
PresenterDenisKarpDenis Karp (he/him) is an active freelancer and frequently records in studio as a member of The Washington Winds. Mr. Karp is the flutist in The Charm City Winds and The Gallery Winds woodwind quintets. He is the co-founder and co-director of The Gallery Winds Chamber Music Summer Camp and has served as a chamber music coach for the Baltimore Symphony Youth Orchestra. Mr. Karp teaches through a private studio, Prince George’s Community College, and the Baltimore School for the Arts TWIGS program.https://www.deniskarp.com
PresenterJuliaLavineJulia Lavine (she/her) is a senior at Central York High School. Julia Has played flute for 7 years and is involved in her school’s marching band and concert band. She has also been involved in various PMEA ensembles, has participated in the FSW high school flute choir, and takes private lessons from Alicia Kosack at York College of Pennsylvania.
PresenterMelissaLindonMelissa Lindon (she/her) is founder/flutist of Patagonia Winds (quintet), principal flute with Avanti Orchestra, adjunct flute faculty at Washington Adventist University, Howard Community College & The Music Institute at HCC, and co-director of Flute-a-rama Summer Camp. She has performed with the Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra, Inscape Chamber Orchestra, and Manassas Ballet Theatre Orchestra. Also a certified yoga teacher (E-RYT500), she enjoys leading Yoga for Musicians workshops at colleges and camps.
PresenterSarahMcIverDr. Sarah McIver (she/her) performs and teaches in the Baltimore/Washington region on flute, piccolo and baroque flute. She joined the faculty of Gettysburg College in 2021, where she is Adjunct instructor of flute, faculty member of the Sunderman Wind Quintet, and directs the Gettysburg Flute Choir. She is an active freelancer in the region, and serves as Secretary on the Flute Society of Washington Board of Directors.
PresenterTroyPaolantonioSFC Troy Paolantonio (he/him), flutist in the US Army Field Band since 2018. Prior assignments include the US Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps and 2ID Band in South Korea. DMA Catholic University of America, MM Univ. of South Florida, BM/BME Florida State Universityhttps://www.armyfieldband.com/about/personnel/concert-band
PresenterKatelynTiptonKatelyn Tipton (she/her) is a sophomore at Millersville University studying Music Education and Performance in the Tell School of Music. She has been playing flute for 10 years, and is now a student under Professor Morgann Davis. Katelyn is currently principal in the Millersville University Wind Ensemble which is the premier concert ensemble at the University.
PresenterZoeyGreeneZoey Greene (she/her) is in 9th grade at Reservoir High School in Howard County, Maryland. She has been playing the flute for 6 years and is in her school’s wind ensemble and marching band. In addition, Zoey plays piano (10+ years) and participates in many local performances and competitions. She also sings with the Peabody Children’s Chorus (9+ years) of John Hopkins University. She is eager to continue learning and thankful for all new opportunities to share her music.
PresenterAlinaWindellAlina Windell is principal flute of the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra, and performs with Duo Flautas Frescas and the Atlanta Ballet Orchestra. She teaches at Huntingdon College and the Orfeo International Music Festival, and has recorded for Naxos and Centaur Records. Dr. Windell serves on the Atlanta Flute Club board, in addition to teaching music courses at Auburn University and maintaining a private flute and piano studio. www.AlinaWindell.comhttps://www.alinawindell.com
PresenterJuliaBarnettJulia Barnett, an active performer and teacher in Southern California, has soloed with the San Diego Symphony, SD Chamber Orchestra, and UCLA Symphony. She earned her DMA at UCLA, studying with Sheridon Stokes. Previous teachers include Christina Jennings, Leone Buyse, and Claude Monteaux.https://www.jbflute.com
CollaboratorJeremySamoleskyJeremy Samolesky, a native of Manitoba, Canada, is the Ike and Rhonda Scott endowed professor of music and head of keyboard studies at Auburn University. Samolesky has appeared on concert stages across four continents including a full recital at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C., broadcast nationally on NPR’s “Performance Today.” Samolesky performs and teaches regularly at universities and conservatories around the world, and is a Steinway Artist.
Presenting EnsembleDuo FlautasDuo Flautas Frescas was founded by flutists Julia Barnett and Alina Windell, with the intent of commissioning, performing, and discovering music for two flutes and piano. Their first commission is from composer Daniel Dorff, and Duo Flautas Frescas’ performance videos can be viewed on their website or YouTube channel. Dr. Barnett and Dr. Windell have been playing together for 16 years, after meeting at University of Colorado, Boulder.https://duoflautasfrescas.wixsite.com/duoff
PresenterAndré J.WashingtonAfter graduating from Eastman in 2010, André moved to France as a Fulbright fellow. He obtained his Premier Prix in 2012 from the Conservatoire d’Orléans and an Artist Diploma in Chamber Music in 2013 from the École Normale de Musique de Paris. While in law school, André was the co-principal flutist of the University of Chicago Symphony Orchestra and has previously performed with l’Orchestre de la Cité Internationale, the Chicago Sinfonietta and the grammy-nominated ensemble Imani Winds.
CollaboratorSkyMacklayThe music of Baltimore-based composer, oboist, and installation artist Sky Macklay is conceptual yet expressive, exploring extreme contrasts, surreal tonality, audible processes, humor, and the physicality of sound. As a 2021 Guggenheim Fellow, her next project is a chamber music album that will synthesize her work as a composer and her raucous, multiphonic-rich oboe performance practice.
CollaboratorYoshikoArahataPraised for “possess[ing] an exacting facility at the keyboard, playing with a vibrancy not often heard " (Rochester CITY Newspaper), Dr. Yoshiko Arahata enjoys a multifaceted career that includes frequent performance of contemporary and underrepresented music, improvisation, composition, and dance collaboration. Arahata is Visiting Assistant Professor at Indiana University Bloomington.
PresenterAyçaÇetinDr. Ayça Çetin currently serves as a Visiting Lecturer at University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and the Principal Flutist of Panama City Symphony Orchestra. An active freelancer, she also performs with several orchestras such as, Atlanta Opera, New Manhattan Sinfonietta and Chattanooga Symphony Orchestra. Dr. Cetin is a Miyazawa Artist.http://aycacetin.wordpress.com
PresenterBenCarleeBen Carlee is a Chicano flutist pursuing the DMA as a recipient of the Advanced Opportunity Fellowship at UW-Madison. He has given performances nationwide including the Wisconsin Flute Festival, Chicago Flute Club Festival and the 2023 National Flute Association Convention. He is part of the Car/Lee duo, a flute/piano duo dedicated to performing works by underrepresented composers and is Managing Director of the DEIB Festival at UW. He also serves as the NFA Lessons Scholarship Coordinator.
PresenterLinaYoo Min LeeLina Yoo Min Lee (D.M.A.) is an internationally active pianist and pedagogue. Her recent piano solo recital at Carnegie Hall was highly acclaimed for her exquisite interpretation of an eclectic program and pianistic virtuosity. Enthusiastic about community engagement, arts outreach and promoting works of underrepresented composers, Lee is the Founder and Artistic Director of the DEIB Festival in Madison. She serves on the piano faculty at the University of Minnesota-Duluth.
PresenterCarolShanskyCarol Shansky has performed at international & national concert halls and conventions, appeared on several recordings, and has premiered numerous new works for the flute. She holds the DMA & MM from Boston University and BM from Ithaca College and teaches at several universities and music studios in the New York area.https://carolshansky.com
CollaboratorMichelleKiecMichelle Kiec serves as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Oklahoma City University. She holds the MM and DMA degrees in clarinet performance from Peabody Conservatory of Music of Johns Hopkins University and BM and BA degrees in music performance and German from the University at Buffalo. Dr. Kiec maintains an active research and creative agenda as a clarinetist. An advocate of newly composed classical music, she is a member of two ensembles: Batik Quartet, Synergy 78.
Presenting EnsembleSynergy 78Synergy 78 (flute and clarinet duo) has performed at conferences of the CMS, NACWPI, IWDS and others. As a duo they focus on new chamber music for the full range of flutes and clarinets and have premiered new works as well as commissioned exciting new compositions. Dr. Carol Shansky is on the faculty of several universities and music studios teaching applied flute and music history and Dr. Michelle Kiec is Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Oklahoma City University.
PresenterCeylonMitchellDr. Ceylon Mitchell II is a performer, educator, and entrepreneur. Originally from Anchorage, Alaska, Dr. Mitchell completed doctoral studies at the University of Maryland School of Music, under the tutelage of Dr. Sarah Frisof. He has performed in venues such as Boston’s Symphony Hall, the John F. Kennedy Center, and Strathmore as an Artist in Residence. Dr. Mitchell also leads a music collective, Raíces Negras, celebrating Black and Latine voices with contemporary classical and jazz music.https://ceylonmitchell.com
CollaboratorFelipeGaribaldiBorn in São Paulo, Brazil, Felipe Garibaldi is an active performer, composer, and instructor. Awarded with the Nascente Prize at the 20th Programa Nascente by the University of São Paulo, Mr. Garibaldi recently received both a Grant and a Graduate Assistantship from the Johns Hopkins University for his Doctoral studies in Classical Guitar Performance at the Peabody Conservatory, in the studio of reputed guitarist and pedagogue Julian Gray.https://felipe-garibaldi.com
PresenterChrisPotterChristine Potter is the motivating force behind the international low flutes community and President of the International Low Flutes Society. She organized a Low Flutes Festival in April 2018, is planning one in April 2024 and is the leader of the 6000+ Low Flutes Facebook group. She was the first chair of the NFA's Low Flutes Community. Chris has many award winning published books include Method Books for Alto and for Bass.https://chrispotterflute.com
Tiger Lily TrioEileenGryckyTiger Lily Trio is faculty-ensemble-in residence at the University of Delaware School of Music. Its performances of contemporary literature by living, underrepresented composers have garnered it invitations to appear at the 2021 and 2023 National Flute Association Conventions, the 2017 National Association of Collegiate Wind and Percussion Instructors Conference in Vancouver, and the 2022 Victoria International Arts Festival in Gozo, Malta. It is active in commissioning new works for the medium.
PresenterCorinneMonaCorinne Mona is a musician with roots in Maryland and all over the world. A champion of contemporary music, Corinne currently freelances in the Maryland/DC area in various orchestral and chamber music settings. Upon earning her bachelor's degree in music from St. Olaf College in Minnesota, she traveled to Bergen, Norway to pursue a master's degree and a post-graduate dipolma in Stavanger. She has played throughout the contiguous 48, Norway, the UK, Spain, Italy, France, Poland, and Japan.
PresenterCrisDohlerBolivian American flutist Cris Dohler Rodas holds an MM from Bowling Green State University and BM from UMD College Park. Now based in Iowa City, they work in Client Services for Flute Authority and have been focusing their creative work towards promoting the music of People of the Global Majority. They released their first EP: "In Memory Of" in 2022, a collection of new works by diverse composers reflecting on the pandemic and social unrest (Spotify, Apple Music). cdrflute.squarespace.comhttps://cdrflute.squarespace.com
PresenterDanParaskyDan Parasky is a flute teacher & flute choir enthusiast that loves running, Star Wars and the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He teaches at Duquesne Univ. & Westminster College. Dan serves NFA as the convention flute choir coordinator. Visit paraskyflutestudios.com & danparasky.com for more info.https://www.paraskyflutestudios.com/
PresenterAJSchmidtAJ Schmidt is a member of the Ab-So-Flutely Amazing Quartet and is a student of Dan Parasky and Austin Brown. He won first place in the COFA Young Artist Competition (junior division 2022) and is a member of the Pittsburgh Youth Symphony.
PresenterNiaHaningtonNia Hanington is a member of the Ab-So-Flutely Amazing Quartet and is a student of Dan Parasky. He performs with the Three Rivers Young Peoples Orchestra and multiple honors ensembles in the greater Pittsburgh area.
PresenterAustin (AJ)KimAustin (AJ) Kim is a member of the Ab-So-Flutely Amazing Quartet and is a student of Tara Yaney. He performs with the Pittsburgh Youth Symphony and multiple honors ensembles in the greater Pittsburgh area.
PresenterLaceyPribanicLacey Pribanic is a member of the Ab-So-Flutely Amazing Quartet and is a student of Carl Adams. Lacey performs with multiple honors ensembles in the greater Pittsburgh area.
Presenting EnsembleThe Ab-So-Flutely Amazing QuartetThe Ab-So-Flutely Amazing Quartet is a small ensemble from the Parasky Flute Studios and is coached by Dan Parasky. The quartet was a winner of the 2023 Pittsburgh Concert Society Young Artist Competition and performs outreach concerts throughout the greater Pittsburgh area.https://www.paraskyflutestudios.com/
CollaboratorAmandaDusoldDr. Amanda Dusold currently teaches and freelances in the Baltimore and Washington DC area. She is a member of the Allentown and Maryland Symphonies, and has performed with multifarious orchestras around the region.
CollaboratorLoriFowserLori Fowser is a freelance clarinetist performing in orchestras, concert bands, musical theater, and chamber ensembles. She teaches clarinet and saxophone at Prince George's Community College, St. Vincent Pallotti High School, the Bullis School, and her home studio. She directs the Maryland Classic Youth Orchestra's Clarinet Choir. Lori is a founding member of the Gallery Winds and Charm City Winds wind quintets.
CollaboratorCallyMessickCally Messick is a French horn player in the Greater Baltimore area with a deep passion for teaching children. She taught instrumental music for Howard County Public Schools before devoting her time to maintaining an active private studio. She is a member of the Gallery Winds Quintet, the Columbia Orchestra and enjoys playing for musicals, horn choir, and British-style brass band.
CollaboratorKariSheaDr. Kari Shea is an active freelance bassoonist and educator, who has performed throughout the United States and Europe. Currently teaching at Anne Arundel Community College, Dr. Shea is a core member of the Mid-Atlantic Symphony orchestra and is the orchestra manager, music librarian and principal bassoonist for Live Arts Maryland. She holds degrees from the U. of Illinois (D.M.A.), the SUNY at Stony Brook (M.M.), and the U. of Southern Mississippi (B.M.ed).
Presenting EnsembleThe Gallery WindsThe Gallery Winds Woodwind Quintet formed in 2012. The musicians in the ensemble are passionate about performing the great literature written for woodwind quintet, from classic standards to new and unknown works, especially by underrepresented composers. They have a mission to educate and inspire students to do the same. The annual Gallery Winds Chamber Music Summer Camp began in 2013 to give middle and high school students the opportunity to experience rehearsing and performing chamber music.https://gallerywinds.com
PresenterDustinWhiteDustin White (he/him) has a distinct interest in performing intercultural music as well as new music by living composers and has premiered multiple solo, chamber, and ensemble works. His principal teachers include John Oberbrunner, Kenneth Andrews, and Nina Assimakopoulos.https://www.dustinwhiteflute.com
PresenterElaineNewhallElaine Newhall performs as principal flute with the Columbia Orchestra (Maryland) and has maintained a private studio in Howard County since 1980. She earned her B.S. in Music Education from College of St. Rose, Albany, NY, where she studied flute with Eleanor Barnes. and M.M. in Music Education from SUNY Potsdam, NY, Crane School of Music. She was honored with the Howard County Arts Council Howie Award, Outstanding Artist 2001.
PresenterElizabethLantzElizabeth Lantz is Senior Instructor of Flute at Virginia Tech. A soloist, chamber musician, and proponent of new music, she has performed and presented masterclasses in North America, Europe, Latin America, and the Baltics. Univ of Southern California, M.M. Yamaha Performing Artist.https://sopa.vt.edu/faculty_staff/music-faculty/winds-faculty/elizabeth-lantz.html
CollaboratorKyleHutchinsKyle Hutchins is an internationally acclaimed saxophonist with performances on five continents, over two dozen albums credits, and hundreds of world premiere performances. He has a DMA from Univ of Minnesota and has served on the faculty of Virginia Tech since 2016.http://www.jefferykylehutchins.com/
CollaboratorShannonWettsteinShannon Wettstein, pianist, specializes in the most daring new music. With performances in 17 countries, she has 22 commercially released recordings, and over 400 premieres. An associate professor at St. Cloud State University, she earned a DMA from UC San Diego and MM from New England Conservatory.https://shannonwettstein.com/about.html
CollaboratorCharlesNicholsCharles Nichols is a composer, violinist, and computer music researcher who explores the expressive potential of instrumental ensembles and computer music systems, for the concert stage and collaborations with dance, video, and installation art.https://sopa.vt.edu/faculty_staff/music-faculty/winds-faculty/elizabeth-lantz.html
PresenterFaithWassonFaith Wasson is an international performing artist, having performed in Europe and North America as orchestral, chamber musician and soloist. She manages the chamber music series, Flute with Faith & Friends, featuring diverse repertoire and instrumentation. As classical music artist in residence, Faith presents the classical performance series at the Media Arts Council. She is the piccolo/3rd flutist with Southeastern PA Symphony. Faith teaches flute, piccolo and chamber music in Glenside, PA.https://www.faithwasson.com
PresenterGinnyTuttonDr. Ginny Tutton is an award-winning teacher, performer, and scholar with a passion for crafting curricula and programs that are innovative, engaging, and accessible for modern audiences. Dr. Tutton has taught flute at Centre College, Music Theory at Austin Peay State University, and she also hosts a musical, game show podcast called SongFoolery. She holds degrees in music education and performance, and her primary teachers include Julie Hobbs and Leonard Garrison.https://www.songfoolery.com/podcast
PresenterHristinaBlagoevaHristina Blagoeva is on the faculty of VSU and Brightpoint College. She is a winner in the 2017 “Musical Fireworks” Competition (Germany), the 2015 Gershwin International Competition in NYC, and the Ackerman Chamber Music Competition. Hristina has performed at venues such as Carnegie Hall, Merkin Hall, Symphony Space and Le Poisson Rouge and has given recitals and workshops at the New York, Chicago, Upper Midwest, Texas, Florida, and Philadelphia Flute Fairs among others. hristinablagoeva.com
CollaboratorMilesMassicotteMiles Massicotte has received numerous accolades and awards as a pianist and his playing has been internationally recognized. Currently a Assistant Professor and Director of Keyboard Division at Virginia State University, he enjoys a diverse career as a recitalist, chamber musician, composer and improviser. Milesmassicotte.com
Presenting EnsembleThe Blagoeva-Massicotte DuoThe Blagoeva-Massicotte Duo has performed extensively across the USA and internationally. In 2019 was the featured ensemble at the Pine Mountain Music Festival in MI. The Duo frequently performs at the Concept Lap, experimental music series in New York City, premiering new works by contemporary composers, at new music festivals such as the Queens New Music Festival, as well as at numerous universities, colleges and schools in the USA and internationally.
PresenterJiyoungLeeFlutist Jiyoung Lee is an award-winning flutist. She performed at the National Flute Congress in Japan.She was awarded many Academic Scholarship of Grant. She was a principal flute in the Korea Philharmonic Orchestra and Recently, Jiyoung Lee finished the coursework for her DMA from Arizona State University. She is a board member of the Arizona Flute Society and Korea Flute Society. In addition, She won American Protégé International Competition and has a winner recital at Carnegie Hall in NY.
PresenterJonathonLandellJonathon Landell studied flute performance at NEC with James Pappoutsakis and graduated in 1968. He played at the Tanglewood Music Festival and other civic orchestras in the Boston area. He was an apprentice for Powell Flutes for four years. He also attended a summer master class in France with Rampal, and collaborated with William Bennett and Albert Cooper in London. He offers a series of tech-training courses for fine flute making and repairing.
PresenterJoshua Paul StineJoshua Paul Stine (he/they) is a third year DMA candidate at the University of Iowa with a specialization in queer musicology. A student of Nicole Esposito, Joshua also holds degrees from the University of South Carolina and Bowling Green State University where he studied with Dr. Jennifer Parker-Harley, Dr. Conor Nelson, and Timothy Munro. Joshua often works with living composers through commissioning projects to help bring music from marginalized groups in the forefront of the repertoire.
PresenterRyanMacDonaldRyan MacDonald (he/him) is a second year DMA candidate at the University of Iowa and a student of Nicole Esposito. He holds a MM from the University of Minnesota and BAs in both physics and music from the University of Maine. He previously was a flutist in the US Army and played flute and clarinet with the US Tour of Fiddler on the Roof. When not performing he enjoys spending time with his daughter and cat.
Presenting EnsembleDuoGODuoGO, with flutists Ryan MacDonald and Joshua Stine, are both DMA candidates at the University of Iowa under Nicole Esposito. Ryan MacDonald has toured across the world as a U.S. Army Bandsman and member of national Broadway tours. Joshua Stine has commissioned several new works and was recently a member of the Grammy nominated recording of Sila: The Breath of the World.
Presenting EnsembleThe United States Army Old Guard Fife and Drum CorpsThe United States Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps is stationed at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, VA. As the only unit of its kind in the armed forces, the Corps acts as the Official Escort to the President and has participated in every Presidential Inaugural Parade since 1961https://fifeanddrum.army.mil/index.html
Presenting EnsembleDe L’air Flute QuartetFlute quartet based in Mexico City, its members are all young flutist who’ve been together for almost 5 years with a clear mission in mind: taking the flute quartet ensamble to the next level, premiering Mexican music, and giving composers the freedom to express themselves by writing new music for this ensamble. De L’air Flute Quartet has been awarded multiple times, national and internationally. Most recently with the Manuel M. Ponce Prize at the International Chamber Music Festival. (2022)https://delairquartet.wixsite.com/delairflutequartet?lang=en
PresenterKarmenGouldKarmen Gould received classical training from The University of Southern California (BM), The University of Michigan (MM), Indiana University, and countless musical sessions that helped shape her abilities. She plays flute and sings background vocals for Justin Hayward of the Moody Blues on tours and recordings; this combination of rock band touring and her classical training uniquely positions her to teach crossover musicians to rock the flute.https://www.karmengouldflutist.com
PresenterKatieSheskoKatie Shesko is embracing her love of video games and has brought it to the forefront of all her music. She produces, records, and arranges video game and anime music in her home studio. You can find her broadcasting these works and improvisations live for her worldwide fandom of gamers and nerds. Katie adds flute in innovative ways to classic tunes to create unforgettable new melodies.https://www.KatieShesko.com
PresenterKatrinaPenmanKatrina Penman is a British born flutist and composer, based in Spain. As a composer, she has received prizes from the Global Music Awards, Akademia Awards, Galway International Flute Festival, European Classical Music Awards & Vienna Classical Music Academy. Her works are published by Brotons Mercadal. She studied flute at the Royal College of Music, London, and the Orchestral academy of Teatro alla Scala in Milan, where she subsequently performed in a number of opera and ballet productions.https://www.katrinapenman.com
PresenterKristenGygiKristen Gygi is a flutist, singer, teacher, coach, Human Software Engineer and a Practitioner of Access Bars, Energetic Facelift and Body Processes, with a specialty in resolving anxiety and finding new perspectives. She presents at conventions, festivals, colleges and universities and was a member of the NFA Performance Health Care Committee and president of the UFA. She has performed with the Philadelphia Orchestra, the St. Louis, Utah and Oregon Symphonies, and the Sarasota Opera Orchestra.https://kristengygi.com/
PresenterLauraBenningLaura Benning, flute, is a member of the Columbia Orchestra, Prince George's Philharmonic, member/manager of DCFlutes flute choir, and Rule of Three flute trio. She is the former Director of the Mid-Atlantic Flute Convention, and was assistant program chair for the National Flute Association 50th Anniversary Convention in 2022. She has degrees in accounting and music from James Madison University, and works as the Chief Financial Officer for her husband's events company, All Stage and Sound.
CollaboratorNatashaDukanNatasha Dukan, piano, began her musical studies in her native city of Split, Croatia, where she won numerous national competitions. After appearing at the 1986 Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow, she went on to win first prize in an international piano competition in Stresa, Italy the same year. In 1996, she bagan study with Julian Martin at the Peabody Institute. She earned a Graduate Performance Diploma in 1998 and Artist Diploma in 2000. She is a member of the Nat'l Chamber Ensemble.
PresenterLauraLentzLaura Lentz is a flutist, collaborator and teacher-mentor. Her debut recording of music by internationally-known Dutch composer JacobTV has appeared on various radio programs including “New Sounds” (twice) with host John Schaefer. Laura also is the founding flutist and Artistic Director for the award-winning group fivebyfive. A dedicated studio teacher, she is frequently invited to present flute masterclasses and workshops across the country. www.lauralentzflute.comhttps://www.lauralentzflute.com
PresenterLaurenZwonikLauren Zwonik (she/her), is a flutist from Colchester, VT. She is currently pursuing her DMA at UNLV with John McMurtery, and is the first student awarded with the Graduate Assistantship in Arts Administration with the Las Vegas Philharmonic. She earned her MM at WVU and BM at the Crane School of Music.https://www.laurenzwonik.com
CollaboratorSamWetzelSam Wetzel (he/him), is a percussionist and music educator working in Las Vegas, Nevada. Sam is pursuing a DMA in percussion performance at UNLV, with Dr. Dean Gronemeier. During his time in higher education, he has received both the Green Family Mallet Percussion Scholarship and the David Baker Music Scholarship.https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-wetzel-b45a12205/
PresenterSammy HollomanSammy Holloman (she/her), is a flutist and educator currently residing in Springfield, MO. Sammy teaches at Missouri State University as a part-time lecturer in Music Theory and Musicianship and subs regularly with the Springfield Symphony. Sammy will be graduating with her DMA in flute performance from WVU in December 2023.https://www.sammyhollomanflute.com
PresenterLeonardGarrisonLeonard Garrison, University Distinguished Professor of Flute at the University of Idaho, performs in the Northwest Wind Quintet, the Walla Walla Symphony, and The Scott/Garrison Duo and teaches at Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp. His twelve CDs have received critical acclaim, and The Flutist Quarterly and Flute Talk have published his articles. A former President of the National Flute Association, he previously taught at The University of Tulsa and performed in the Tulsa Philharmonic. Leonardgarrison.http://www.leonardgarrison.com
PresenterLeslieMarrsLeslie Marrs (Drake University) has been featured as Soloist with the Bay View Festival Orchestra, University of North Carolina at Greensboro Orchestra, and the US Army Field Band. She performs in Dúo Pelliroja with Nancy Schneeloch-Bingham and has a critically acclaimed CD with guitar duo partner Robert Trent. Dr. Marrs has taught in residence at Minzu University in Beijing and for the Holy Trinity Music School in Haïti.
PresenterLigiaVerdugaLigia Verduga is an Ecuadorian flutist. Started playing flute at age nine. Studied in the music conservatory in her birth city Guayaquil from where she got her music degree. Earned her Master's degree from the University of Utah in 2022 and is currently studying at UNLV to get her DMA. Has won several competitions throughout her career including the Charleston International competition in 2022 and has been invited to teach masters classes in international flute festivals including Italy, Ecuador
Presenter; Convention Director; CoordinatorMeghanShanley AlgerShanley Alger uses commissioning and programming to advance social change, designing concerts that provoke reflection and audience participation. Current projects include a debut album of living women composers, Making Waves, with works by Pamela Z, Shatin, Socolofsky, and Nourbakhsh. The ensemble she co-founded and co-directs, Balance Campaign, recently received a Chamber Music America grant and is collaborating with DC-native composer Jeffrey Mumford on a newly commissioned work.https://www.meghanshanleyalger.com
Presenter; Hich School Flute Choir DirectorPaigeDasher LongPaige Dashner Long, Altus Artist and award winning composer, directs Metropolitan Flute Orchestra, Daytona State College Flute Orchestra and Florida Flute Orchestra. Performs and directs festivals internationally. Serves on the board of the International Low Flutes Society. Former chair NFA Low Flutes Committee; past president Greater Boston Flute Association. See www.contraflute.comhttps://www.contraflute.com/
PresenterRebeccaNeedhamRebecca Needham is a Doctor of Musical Arts student at James Madison University in Flute Performance, Pedagogy, and Literature, studying with Dr. Beth Chandler Cahill. An avid performer, Rebecca is the winner of the 2022 and 2023 VMTA Concerto competitions, 2022 Colorado State University Concerto Competition, and 2022 Colorado MTNA Young Artist Competition. As an educator, Rebecca is a teaching assistant at James Madison University, working with the flute studio and music appreciation area.
PresenterRebeccaDunnellDr. Rebecca Dunnell is flute professor at NWMSU. A native New Yorker, she studied and freelanced in the NY area before earning the DMA at UNC-Greensboro. She served the Kansas City Flute Association as President, and the NFA on the Pedagogy Committee for 8 years and the Masterclass Competition in roles as adjudicator and then Coordinator for 3 years. Her background in Indian music was as flutist with the East-West group Lothlorien, and as tamboura player for sarodist Jim Palmer.
PresenterJoshuaLockhartJoshua Lockhart is a graduate assistant at James Madison University pursing a Master of Music in flute performance with Dr. Beth Chandler Cahill. He is a member of the JMU Wind Symphony, JMU Symphony Orchestra, and an active chamber musician. Joshua has been a masterclass performer for several renowned flutists including Sharon Sparrow, Jeff Zook, and Valerie Coleman. He received a Bachelor of Music in flute performance from Eastern Michigan University where he studied with Dr. Julie Stone.
PresenterDanielEsperanteDaniel Esperante is a graduate assistant at James Madison Univ. where he is pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts degree with Dr. Beth Chandler Cahill and conducts the JMU Chamber Orchestra. He completed his master’s degree at the Univ. of North Texas with Terri Sundberg. Daniel has performed in masterclasses with Marina Piccinini, Jim Walker, Michael Faust, and Bonita Boyd. An avid performer of early music, he began studying the Baroque flute with Dr. Na’ama Lion while at UNT.
PresenterRhondaBerlinRhonda Berlin is a life-long musician and educator. She works as a ballet pianist at Mercyhurst University and Choral Director at Penn State Behrend. As the owner of Berlin Music Studio she teaches contemporary voice, piano & flute and facilitates professional development for other educators. In addition to working as Music Director for various Erie Playhouse shows, she appears frequently in the Erie Playhouse Orchestra.https://www.berlinmusicstudio.com/
PresenterRogierde PijperRogier de Pijper (1982) is a Dutch flutist and Altus artist. He is regularly active as a soloist, has acted as a substitute in various orchestras including Philharmonie Zuid Nederland and has given concerts and masterclasses in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, the Czech Republic, Italy, Finland and the United States of America. Various composers have written works for him, including Sandro Fazzolari (Italy) and Gregory Glancey (America).https://www.rogierdepijper.com/
CollaboratorHeatherPinkhamHeather Pinkham is a pianist, composer, and musicologist originally from California and residing in The Netherlands. She holds a Master of Music in Composition from Fontys Hogeschool voor de Kunsten in Tilburg (where she studied with Anthony Fiumara), a Master of Arts degree in Cognitive Musicology from the University of Amsterdam, and a Bachelor of Arts double major in Music (piano performance and musicology) and Italian Studies from the University of California, Berkeley.https://heatherpinkham.com/
PresenterRoyaFarzanehRoya Farzaneh (DMA) has built a versatile career as a solo, chamber, and orchestral musician. She holds the position of principal flutist with the Johnson City Symphony Orchestra and serves as the 2nd flutist for the Symphony of the Mountains. Currently, she teaches flute at East Tennessee State University and is the artistic director of the ETSU Community Music School. Her previous mentors include Jennifer Parker-Harley, Trevor Wye, George Pope, and Deanna Little.Https://Royafarzaneh.com
PresenterZiqingGuanZiqing Guan holds a DMA degree from the University of South Carolina. She has been a prize winner and finalist in several competitions, including Mid-South Flute Society Young Artist Competition, Greater Philadelphia Flute Society Young Artist Competition, and South Carolina Flute Society Young Artist Competition. Her principal teachers include Dr. Jennifer Parker-Harley, Dr. Adah Jones, and Professor Qi Yan. Ziqing is a Haynes Young Artist.
PresenterShannaPranaitisShanna Pranaitis is an and educator and radically traditional flutist who uses flutes as an interface to fearlessly explore the growth edges of sonic possibility. As a certified Integrative Change Work coach, she help artists create wildly fulfilling lives careers using evidence-based neuroscience tools. She is also the Artistic Director and co-founder of FluteXpansions.com. More info: www.shannapranaitis.comhttps://www.shannapranaitis.com/
PresenterSofiaHailuSofia Hailu is an artist and performance coach dedicated to continual self discovery. Formerly a flutist with the US Army Europe Band and Chorus and later, the Army Fife and Drum Corps, she now invests herself in an array of projects from performing to presenting, critiquing and coaching. She holds an MM in Flute Performance from Indiana University, an MA in Arts Management from American University and is currently pursuing certification in Executive Leadership Coaching at Georgetown University.
PresenterSabatinoScirriSabatino Scirri (AD Yale, BM & MM SUNY Buffalo) is principal flutist with the Greater Annapolis Ballet Orchestra. He has appeared as soloist with the Buffalo Philharmonic and Philharmonia Orchestra of Yale. Accolades include the Lucile Parrish Ward, Anne M. Gannett Awards (National Federation of Music Clubs) and Keith Wilson Award, George Wellington Miles Fellowship (Yale University). Mr. Scirri is a third year DMA candidate studying with Aaron Goldman at The Catholic University of America.
PresenterSunjuKimSunju Kim is a flutist performer based in Cincinnati, Ohio. She holds a Bachelor's degree from Chung-Ang University, South Korea and completed her Master degree and Artist Diploma at the University of Cincinnati, College-Conservatory of Music. Her debut digital single album has been released worldwide, and she continues to enhance her musical excellence through various awards and performance experiences.
PresenterTabathaEasleyTABATHA EASLEY is Associate Professor and Coordinator of Winds and Percussion at VCU. A former FSW board member and MidAtlantic program chair, she has also served as NFA Committees Liaison, Secretary/Assistant Secretary and CFC coordinator. She has performed and taught on six continents. DMA, Eastman; MA, CSULB; BM, UAF www.tabathaeasley.com (she/her/hers)
CollaboratorGraceBausonSFC Grace Bauson, harpist with the US Army Field Band since 2016. DMA Ball State University, MM University of Toronto, and BM from Ball State University. She studied with Elizabeth Richter at Ball State University and Judy Loman at University of Toronto. Other instructors have included Lucile Lawrence and Adelheid Blovsky-Miller. SFC Bauson is currently on the music faculty at the University of Mary Washington and previously served as instructor at James Madison University. https://usarmyband.com/ensembles/the-u-s-army-strings
PresenterZoeSorrell“A profoundly gifted and innovative flutist” (Pittsburgh in the Round), Zoe Sorrell is a creator of words, sounds, relationships, and spaces. Her primary mediums of expression are flute and poetry. For Zoe, creativity is both a spiritual and a liberation practice. They love to read, garden, perform burlesque and look up the etymologies of everyday words. Zoe is the wife of an incredible drummer and a caretaker to two sweet cats and one very silly dog. www.zoesorrell.comhttps://www.zoesorrell.com
PresenterMiracleJohnsonMiracle Johnson (she/her) is a Mississippi-based flutist currently earning her master’s degree at the University of Delaware. MJ graduated summa cum laude from the University of Southern Mississippi with a B. M. in Performance and a minor in Media and Entertainment Arts Management, where she studied with Dr. Danilo Mezzadri. While there, she won 3rd place in the 2021 MTNA Solo Woodwinds Competition for the state of Mississippi. She also served as principal flute for the USM Wind Ensemble.
CollaboratorAxelFergusonAxel Ferguson (he/him) is a first-year UD oboe performance master's student from Moline, Illinois. In high school, he played for three years in the Quad City Youth Symphony, winning the ensemble's concerto competition and performing alongside the Quad City Symphony Orchestra in April 2019. In May 2023, he graduated from Carnegie Mellon University with a BFA in oboe performance. While at CMU, he enjoyed performing in CMU's various ensembles and playing in pit orchestras in the Pittsburgh area.
CollaboratorJoeGonzalesJoe Gonzales (he/him) is a Texan at heart. Having received his Bachelor's in Music in Applied Instrumental Performance at Angelo State University in San Angelo, Texas, he employs the teachings of Dr. Timothy Bonenfant in his playing. While at ASU, he performed in multiple small ensembles, including woodwind quintet. He has also played alongside the Air Force Band of the West for the San Angelo Fourth of July fireworks show and performed as a soloist at Emmanuel Episcopal Church in San Angelo.
CollaboratorNoahFarnsworthNoah Farnsworth (he/him) is a horn player from Charlotte, North Carolina. He completed an Honors Bachelor of Music degree at the University of Delaware in Spring 2023 and is returning to the University of Delaware in pursuit of a Master’s in music performance. In addition to horn playing, he is an avid choral musician and aspiring composer. He recently spent a summer playing with the Miami Beach Classical Music Festival (2023), where he performed a number of orchestral and operatic staples.
CollaboratorAustin AJPerryAustin AJ Perry (any/all) is a true 21st century composer, full time student, bassoonist, and avid roller coaster enthusiast. AJ is inspired by the passage of time, the vastness of the West Texas landscape, and LGBTQ+ arts and culture. He has written for several groups across Texas and has had performances of his works across the United States, including at the Texas Music Educators Association 2022 Convention. They have also performed on bassoon, contrabassoon, and heckelphone around the world.
Presenting EnsembleThe Easterlies, University of Delaware Graduate Woodwind Quintet In-ResidenceThe Easterlies are the Graduate Woodwind Quintet in-residence at the University of Delaware School of Music. Their name is inspired by the trade winds, the permanent east to west winds around the equator. They began playing together in Fall of 2023, having never met before and coming to Delaware (an "eastward" destination) from different parts of the country. As an ensemble, they are committed to promoting new music and cultivating working relationships with local composers.https://easterliesquintet.wixsite.com/theeasterlies
PresenterSimoneMaurerSimone Maurer is an Australian flutist, Certified Movement Analyst (Laban/Bartenieff Institute of Movement Studies, NYC), music psychology researcher, and educator at the University of Melbourne. Simone researches the body language of flutists and is committed to supporting musician health and wellbeing.https://www.simonemaurermusic.com/
PresenterMelissa Hyatt FossMelissa Hyatt Foss is an instrument-maker, musician and composer-performer who co-creates with an ever-growing collection of original instruments that she hand-crafts with clay and other natural materials. Her evocative music is an intimate dialogue between the primordial, organic sound material conjured from her bespoke flutes, horns and noise generators, and granular processors, loopers, electronic instruments, and field recordings. https://melissahyattfoss.com/
PresenterRachelBeetzComposer, flutist, and improviser, Rachel Beetz explores presence through sound and listening. Her works recreate physical atmospheres based on her deep listening adventures in the wild, exploring hidden worlds of nature and machines. Combining experimental field recordings and electronically modified flutes, her works examine community, environmentalism, and women’s work through sound, textiles, and lighting. Her projects have been featured in concert halls and galleries in Australia, Iceland, India, the United Kingdom, and the United States. You can hear her on Orenda, Blue Griffin, iikki, Neuma, and Populist record labels. She is currently a co-director of Wasteland Music and Populist Records.https://www.rachelbeetz.com/
CollaboratorElizabethHillA recognized leader in chamber music and contemporary music advocacy, pianist Elizabeth G. Hill has performed across the US and Europe in service of her life's work: joining cultures together through music. Elizabeth is a co-founder of the chamber duo Meraki, dedicated to awakening cultural compassion through music. She is also pianist for Balance Campaign, a chamber ensemble whose focus lies exclusively on commissioning and performing works by marginalized composers. She currently serves as the pianist for the National Philharmonic. Originally raised in Anchorage, Alaska, Elizabeth holds degrees from Mary Baldwin College, James Madison University, and The Catholic University of America.https://elizabethghill.com/
CollaboratorErinMurphy SnedecorErin Murphy Snedecor is a multi-genre cellist who specializes in contemporary chamber music, composition, and collaborative performance. While her training is primarily classical, she has used the influence of rock, folk, and electronica to improvise and compose in new styles, leading to many unconventional collaborations and performances. Erin is a founder and Co-Artistic Director of Maryland sextet Balance Campaign and a Co-Director of the North Carolina-based earspace ensemble. In 2019, Erin released an album of original music under her solo moniker, Zooxanthellae, available on Bandcamp. Erin is a graduate of Ithaca College and the University of Maryland, College Park, and a 2023 Strathmore Artist-in-Residence.https://www.erinmurphysnedecor.com/
CollaboratorScottCrowneEnjoying a career that embraces performing, conducting, and teaching, Dr. Scott Crowne currently serves on the faculty of the Sunderman Conservatory at Gettysburg College as collaborative pianist and vocal coach. Much in demand as a coach and conductor for opera, he serves as music director for Keystone Opera and has served this position for numerous small companies in the USA. He has also worked as a vocal coach for summer programs in the US, Germany, and Italy. As a pianist he collaborates with vocal and instrumental artists from around the world. He received his diplomas from the University of Maryland (DMA, MM) and the Catholic University of America (BM summa cum laude).https://www.scottcrowne.com/
PresenterKatayoonHodjati
PresenterJenZhou
PresenterCourtney Martin
Convention Program Chair; CoordinatorStephanie RayStephanie Ray enjoys an active career as a performer, studio artist, event curator, and arts administrator. She is a founder and co-director for Piique Collective, a quintet of modern music makers whose focus is on original compositions, improvisatory and interpretative scores, and music from living composers set in unique performance environments. Stephanie is a Musician-Owner and serves on the Musician Council for the international music cooperative Groupmuse, a platform where she also performs and hosts living room concerts featuring local artists. She regularly performs with the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra, Maryland Symphony Orchestra, Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra, Baltimore Chamber Orchestra, Bach in Baltimore, Cathedral Choral Society, Post Classical Ensemble, and Baltimore's Mind on Fire. Recent studio engagements include recording for Oxide Games and Dan Deacon. Stephanie received degrees from the University of Texas at Austin and Peabody Conservatory.www.piquecollective.org
Staff AccompanistBoraLeeBora Lee is a sought after pianist in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area and has performed as a soloist with Seoul National Symphony Orchestra, Cantate Chamber Orchestra, Pro Arte Chamber Orchestra and Loudoun Symphony Youth Orchestra. Lee is also an experienced collaborative pianist, working as a staff collaborative pianist at the Aspen Music Festival and School, and the Great Mountain International Music Festival and School and is on faculty at Washington Conservatory of Music. Dr. Lee earned her Doctor of Musical Arts degree and Master of Music degree in Piano Performance at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, and her Bachelor of Music degree from Yonsei University in Korea.
Staff AccompanistHui-ChuanChenA native of Taiwan, pianist Hui-Chuan Chen began piano lessons at age four and made her debut performance at six. As a successful soloist, chamber musician, collaborative pianist and educator, Hui-Chuan has traveled and performed widely throughout the United States, Europe and Asia. For her solo performance, she has won numerous prizes at competitions including the Wonderlic piano competition in Baltimore, Concerto Competition of International Music Festival in Siena, Italy, Kaohsiung City Competition, Kawai Piano Competition, the University Piano Concerto Competition of NTNU, Taiwan. As a chamber musician, she performed at Kennedy Center, Carnegie Hall, and Supreme court of the United States. She worked with accomplished musicians such as cellist Amit Peled and Flutist Demarre McGill. Hui-Chuan holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the Peabody Conservatory of the Johns Hopkins University where she is also a faculty member in the preparatory division. She also serves on the faculty of the University of Maryland Baltimore City, Washington Conservatory of Music and the Heifetz International Music Festival in Virginia.
Honors Competition CoordinatorChelsea KayeAndersonChelsea Kaye Anderson is a piccolo soloist and flutist in NOVA. She is Principal Flute of the Northern Neck Orchestra and plays piccolo with orchestras in VA, MD, and OH. Chelsea earned her MM in Piccolo Performance at the Peabody Conservatory under the tutelage of Laurie Sokoloff and Erica Peel. She holds BMs in Flute Performance and Music Education from Ithaca College studying with Dr. Wendy Mehne.
Honors Competition FinalistAimeeChenAimee is 10 years old and is currently in fifth grade. She enjoys playing the flute very much and chose to play flute because it is extremely unique. Aimee started trying to get a sound and now she can play songs! Aimee hopes she can become an exceptional flute player.
Honors Competition FinalistSkyeKassalSkye Kassal is a 6th grader at Magothy River MS, where she is in band and concert orchestra. She is in the Annapolis Symphony Academy’s Aquarius wind ensemble and in her 2nd year with the CYSO junior flute choir under Gail Vehslage.
Honors Competition FinalistPenelopeHuangPenelope Huang is currently a 6th grader at Basis Independent McLean. She enjoys the flute, harp, drama, and volleyball. Penelope started playing the flute in 2016. She has studied with Ms. Michelle Rubis and Dr. Laura Kaufman.
Honors Competition FinalistHannahChoiHannah Choi studies under Gina Eichman. She learned to play the piano at the age of five, and played for six years. In the third grade, she became interested in the flute, and has played ever since then. Hannah has participated in the Howard County GT Bands from 2018 to 2023, and has also been part of the Maryland All State Junior Band for the 2022-2023 season. This year is her second year as a member of the Baltimore Symphony Youth Orchestra's CO.
Honors Competition FinalistHarshaniGowniHarshini Gowni is a freshman at Howard High School, Ellicott City, MD. He has played with GT band and Honor band from 5-9th grade and plays with the Baltimore Symphony Youth Orchestras Concert Orchestra. Harshani regularly received 1s at solo and ensemble festivals and was in the highest band in 8th and 9th grades. Harshaini has had a passion for flute since the 4th grade.
Honors Competition FinalistLucyFoshayLucy Foshay is a 9th grader from Charlottesville, Virginia. Lucy studies with Angela Kelly and participated in the 2023 UVA Flute Forum masterclass with Sarah Frisof. She is principal flute in the Youth Symphony, Youth Orchestras of Central Virginia. She was principal flute at the Interlochen Summer Camp Intermediate Wind Symphony. In 2023 Lucy placed third at the Mid Atlantic Flute Convention, Junior Division, Honors Competition. Lucy won a summer camp scholarship from the Wednesday Music Club.
Honors Competition FinalistEllaLiuElla is currently a sophomore in Winston Churchill High School and she has been playing flute for 7 years. She first studied with Susan Brandt, and now with Leah Arsenault Barrick. She has participated in multiple youth orchestras, including MCYO, PVYO, AYPO, honors band, and Maryland junior all state band.
Honors Competition FinalistNoelleHahnNoelle Hahn is a 16 year old flutist and is in the marching band for MRHS in MD. She has been playing the flute for 6 years and enjoys the adrenaline rush she gets when she’s on stage getting ready to perform. She attended the Chamber Music Institute in Spain where she learned improvisation and video performance. She was in Junior All State and is currently in the BSYO. She won an honorable mention in the BSYO concerto and RRHS competition. She hopes to go busking in NYC and face fun obstacles!
Honors Competition FinalistAnnikaSeshadriAnnika began playing the flute in summer 2014. Since, she has participated in Howard County Elementary and Middle School GT Bands, as well as county and statewide solo and ensemble festivals. In 2020, Annika was selected as principal flutist of the Maryland Junior All State Band, and in 2022, into the Baltimore Symphony Youth Orchestra. Last year, she was a finalist in the Flute Society of Washington’s Junior Honors competition. Annika is a member of the Howard County Youth Orchestra.
Honors Competition JudgeBrittneyPattersonDr. Brittney Patterson is Assistant Professor of Music at the University of Montevallo where she teaches Musicology and Flute. She holds degrees from the University of Alabama, the University of Northern Colorado, and the University of Tennessee. Her research interests are flute pedagogy, and the music of Germaine Tailleferre.
High School Flute Choir PerformerElizaCookEliza Cook has been playing the flute for the past six years, and plays in the Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble at Blake HS. She was in Montgomery County Honors Bands in 6th and 8th grade, and played in the All-State Junior Honors Band last year. She is also a member of the Tri-M Music Honor Society. When not playing the flute, she enjoys riding horses.
High School Flute Choir PerformerMeganDangMegan Dang is a 9th grade student studying at Winston Churchill Highschool in Potomac, Maryland. She has been playing flute for 5 years, and has been progressively building her skills ever since. Throughout her journey, she has been enjoying playing the flute with the senior flute choir of MCYO, has earned the highest scores in festivals, and hopes to gain even more experience and make new connections with other flute players and choirs in the near future.
High School Flute Choir PerformerAparnaGaneshAparna Ganesh is a senior at Richard Montgomery High School, in Maryland. She has played the flute for 7 years now under the instruction of her flute teacher, Donna Dymond. She has been a part of ensembles such as the flute choir at the Maryland Classical Youth Orchestras, and the Wind Ensemble of Potomac Valley Youth Orchestras.
High School Flute Choir PerformerEllaHuElla Hu lives in Maryland and is in 11th grade at River Hill High School. She has been involved in music for about a decade and has enjoyed every step of the way. Her journey started on piano, then the recorder, followed by guitar, before she finally settled on the flute. She fell in love with the beauty and whimsical tone of the flute. Currently, she is attempting to learn other Chinese variations of this instrument.
High School Flute Choir PerformerRobiinInterranteRobin Interrante is a Junior at Mount Hebron High School in Ellicott City, MD who is passionate about playing flute, piccolo and piano. Robin is first chair and section lead in her school's wind ensemble, participates in marching band, pit orchestra, and has taken private flute and piano lessons for almost a decade.
High School Flute Choir PerformerPeonyKangPeony Kang was 1st Chair All County Band and Junior All State Band.
High School Flute Choir PerformerAshuKhetanAshu Khetan is a 9th grader attending Wootton HS in Maryland. Ashu began flute lessons at age 10, but her passion really sparked 2 years ago when she began practicing more and improving. She is a member of the MCYO Senior Flute Choir and also plays in her school band. Ashu sings, take piano lessons, and can play some ukulele. She loves walking her 2 Golden Doodles, which she bargained very hard for with her parents! Ashu also own a small jewelry business on Etsy which she devote much of her time to. Thank you!
High School Flute Choir PerformerAliciaKimAlicia Kim is a ninth grader at Georgetown Day School in Washington, DC, and studies with David Lonkevich and Amanda Blaikie. She plays with the American Youth Concert Orchestra and was a member of the Interlochen Intermediate Symphony Orchestra the past two summers.
High School Flute Choir PerformerAllisonKimAllison Kim, 9th grade, Fairfax High School.
High School Flute Choir PerformerJasmineLiJasmine Li is a senior at Poolesville HS in the Global Ecology science program. She's played the flute for seven years but she's been with through her entire life! Outside of flute, Jasmine likes to collect maps, write, and build robots. After high school, she hopes to continue playing in ensembles.
High School Flute Choir PerformerEleanorShiEleanor Shi is in the 9th grade and currently plays for the Baltimore Symphony Youth Orchestra (2022-now) and her school's band and chamber orchestra. In her previous years, she participated in the Howard County GT Band (2019-2023) and Maryland's All-State Band (2023).Eleanor also received the highest rating at the Howard County Solo & Ensemble Festival for both years that she participated (2022, 2023)
High School Flute Choir PerformerMoriahStachitasMoriah Stachitas hsd been playing the flute for about 5 years now.
High School Flute Choir PerformerRhysVander KelenRhys Vander Kelen is a sophomore from Brookville Pennsylvania. He plays with the Pittsburgh Youth Symphony Orchestra (PYSO) and has played with the Three Rivers Young People's Orchestra (TRYPO) Wind Symphony. Rhys' private teacher is Dan Parasky.
High School Flute Choir PerformerAlexanderViadoAlex Viado is a junior flutist at Princess Anne High School. He has placed second chair at All-District Band his freshman and sophomore year and made the Southeastern Virginia SRO his sophomore and junior year, placing second and first chair. He is a part of his school's marching band and is going to be Drum Major his senior year. He attended the 2023 Mid-Atlantic Flute Convention as part of the High School Flute Choir.
High School Flute Choir PerformerReneeWuRenee Wu is a senior at Centennial High School, Maryland. She has been playing the flute for nine years and loves to perform with her school band. Renee is also involved in the Peabody Youth Orchestra and her school marching band as a drum major. Renee has been studying under the guidance of Mr. Denis Karp throughout her high school career and looks forward to continuing with her musical passions in college.
High School Flute Choir PerformerEmmaYanEmma Yan is a sophomore at Centennial High School, where she is in the Wind Ensemble. Emma has been playing the flute for about 6 years, she joined my school's marching band this year, and has been in Howard County's GT Band twice. Additionally, she has participated in Howard County's Solo and Ensemble festival multiple times.
High School Flute Choir PerformerJaylynneYangJaylynne Yang is a student at Wootton High School in Maryland. Jaylynne is extremely passionate about the flute and has been playing for five years. One of her achievements was winning the 2023 PVYO Concerto Competition. She was also in the Mid Atlantic Flute Choir last year and it was such an amazing experience. She is constantly improving and has an open mind to new experiences and critiques. Jaylynne loves trying different approaches and learning from other flute players. Thank you!
High School Flute Choir PerformerVictoriaYaoVictoria Yao. High School and Middle School Symphonic Winds 5 years. Howard County GT Honors Band 1 year. Howard County Solo and Ensemble Festival Gold Honors 4 years. Been with private teacher for around 5 years. Played for local libraries and nursing homes.
High School Flute Choir PerformerKatherineWangKatherine Wang has been playing the flute ever since she first heard it played at a school instrumental music expo in 4th grade. While she initially chose it because it was shiny, she has since come to love it for the beautiful tone it can produce and its technical capabilities. Outside of her school wind ensemble, she also performs with PVYO and has previously participated in MCYO as well.
High School Flute Choir PerformerAJSchmidtAJ Schmidt is a second year member of the Pittsburgh Youth Symphony Orchestra and a sophomore at Franklin Regional Highschool in Murrysville, PA. He's a private student of Dan Parasky and Austin Brown. At Parasky Flute Studios, AJ is part of the Ab-So-Flutely Amazing Quartet and Honors Flute Choir.
High School Flute Choir PerformerNiaHaningtonNia Hanington, a 15-year-old flutist, is currently a student at Franklin Regional High School and a private student of Dan Parasky, performing in Dan’s studio honors ensemble and studio quartet. Nia is a member of Trypo’s Young People’s Orchestra (YPO) and Pennsylvania Music Educator’s Association (PMEA) district band and has consistently ranked within the top three positions in Seton Hill University’s young artist’s competitions. Nia plays the piccolo in the Franklin Regional marching band.
Affinity Group LeaderKristinLongKristin Long is an amateur flute player residing in the DMV. She has a background in education teaching students of all ages and abilities. Highlights of her career include; teaching French in the U.S., working at a school for the blind in France and interpreting for faculty from the Paris Opera Ballet School. Ms. Long hopes to promote access and inclusion in the performing arts for all. Ms. Long enjoys studying ballet, tandem biking and writing in her spare time.
Affinity Group Coordinator; Affinity Group LeaderWillieSantiagoWillie Santiago is a passionate performer, educator, and arts administrator from Baltimore, Maryland. As a performer, their skills range from early music on the traverso to experimental contemporary music utilizing extended techniques. Their work has been featured at the New Music Gathering, National Flute Association’s Annual Convention, and the Mid-Atlantic Flute Convention. Willie received their M.M. in Flute from East Carolina University and B.M. in Music Education from Syracuse University.
Affinity Group LeaderMaría Luisade la Cerda RohdeU.S. Army (RET) Master Sergeant Maria Luisa de la Cerda Rohde served 24 years in The United States Army Band, “Pershing’s Own.” Her performance degree is from The University of Texas at Austin. She conducts the Arlington Flute Ensemble and performs in flute choirs, bands and orchestras on piccolo, flute, alto flute and bass flute. She is also a professional actor in D.C. area. Maria Luisa would like to thank all her flute teachers through the years. She is grateful for her family’s support.
Festival Flute Choir CoordinatorJulieMcDonaldJulie McDonald plans to graduate with her DMA in Flute Performance from George Mason Univ. in August 2024 under the tutelage of Professor Julianna Nickel. Mrs. McDonald earned a place in the NFA Professional Flute Choir 2018, 2019, 2022, 2023 and the Professional Low Flute Choir in 2024. She has been playing with the Woodbridge Professional Flute Choir since 2015. Currently, she is the adjunct flute professor for Northern Virginia Community College at its Annandale campus.
Festival Flute Choir DirectorEileenYarissonDr. Eileen Yarrison is the conductor of the Me2/Boston Flute Choir, part of the world’s only classical music organization devoted to erasing the stigma of mental illness through supportive ensembles and performances. She holds degrees from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the Pennsylvania State University, and the University of New Hampshire. She is an adjunct faculty member at Salem State University and Gordon College.
PresenterLauraBenningaura Benning, flute, is a member of the Columbia Orchestra, Prince George's Philharmonic, member/manager of DCFlutes flute choir, and Rule of Three flute trio. She is the former Director of the Mid-Atlantic Flute Convention, and was assistant program chair for the National Flute Association 50th Anniversary Convention in 2022. She has degrees in accounting and music from James Madison University, and works as the Chief Financial Officer for her husband's events company, All Stage and Sound.
Guest ArtistKyreseWashingtonPerformer and composer, Kyrese Washington (they/them), is based in New York City studying at Manhattan School of Music with Valerie Coleman. Most recently, Kyrese won first prize at the Raleigh Area Flute Association Young Artist Competition, and over the summer they attended the Imani Winds Chamber Music Festival. A graduate of the University of North Carolina in Greensboro, they completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Flute Performance, and was the 2020-21 Presser Scholar. They have also performed Carl Nielsen’s Concerto for Flute and Orchestra with the Raleigh Symphony Orchestra and the UNC Greensboro Symphony Orchestra.