Member Spotlight-Wayla Chambo

Get to Know...Wayla Chambo

Wayla Chambo loves new music and is an avid performer of contemporary works. This year, her active performance schedule included performances at the New York City Electroacoustic Music Festival and the Christopher Newport University Contemporary Music Festival. Wayla is a member of the New Music Advisory Committee of the National Flute Association. A member since 2016, we’re so happy that she’ll be bringing her experience and perspective to FNMC!
 
Q&A with Wayla…
 
What about new music for the flute appeals to you?
I love exploring a variety of sounds and expressive possibilities. I enjoy challenges and new discoveries. I want my instrument to have a powerful voice, and I enjoy collaborating with composers and being an active partner in creating the music of our time.
 
Describe your musical background and current activities.
I have a DMA with in flute performance, with a related field in contemporary music, from the University of North Texas, where I was fortunate to study with the renowned new music flutist Dr. Elizabeth McNutt as well as many other excellent teachers. I also attended CalArts, which is where I first started diving into new and experimental music, and the University of North Carolina. Currently I am a freelance flutist and teacher based in Southeast VA, and I frequently perform new music in both solo and chamber music contexts. I’m also a member of the NFA’s New Music Advisory committee.
 
What advice can you give to flutists about approaching new music in practice?
Keep an open mind, be curious, and don’t be discouraged if it sounds “bad” at first or takes longer to learn than you’re used to. Find a piece that you really love, and let that lead you to other composers and works you might enjoy.
 
More About Wayla…

Wayla J. Chambo is a versatile, committed performer of new and experimental flute music alongside the traditional repertoire. She has performed with the Dallas Festival of Modern Music, Allen Philharmonic Orchestra, Dallas Wind Symphony, Virginia Symphony, and the Norfolk Chamber Consort, and maintains an active presence at national and regional festivals and conventions. Chambo serves on the NFA’s New Music Advisory Committee and was Program Chair of the 2016 Mid-Atlantic Flute Convention. She earned her DMA from the University of North Texas, and is currently a faculty member at Thomas Nelson Community College and a classical radio announcer on WHRO-FM.
 https://www.facebook.com/WaylaChamboFlutist/
 

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