THE SJSU FLUTE PROGRAM
The SJSU Flute Program is a place where flutists at many different stages can grow in a serious, supportive, and inspiring environment. Our students work closely with faculty not only on individual playing, musicianship, excerpts, chamber music, and solo repertoire, but also on the bigger picture of building a meaningful career in music. Through opportunities like Flute Day and our Fall Flute Intensive, students regularly work with world renowned guest artists and teachers who bring fresh ideas and high level mentorship directly into our studio. What makes SJSU especially exciting is that it is not about arriving as the finished product. It is about where you want to go, how much you are willing to grow, and having the guidance, opportunities, and community to help you get there.
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Isabelle Chapuis (1975 - 2008)
Catherine Payne (2008 - 2023)
Ráyo Furuta (2021- Present)
Where Are They Now?
SJSU Flute alumni are building standout careers across performance, teaching, and arts leadership, some of these amazing alumni are including:
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Francesca Anderson: Principal flutist of the Folsom Lake Symphony and an active performer and teacher in Northern California.
Susan Craig Winsberg: Two time Grammy winning flutist, composer, and longtime member of the Grammy Award winning Mariachi Divas de Cindy Shea.
Teresa Orozco: Accomplished orchestral and Latin artist. Flutist with Monterey Symphony and the Carmel Bach Festival, and Professor at West Valley College.
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Laurie Seibold: Active Bay Area orchestral flutist with performing credits including Berkeley Symphony, Opera San José, and Merola Summer Festival.
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Amelia Vitarelli: Owner and Artistic Director of My Little Conservatory. Respected chamber musician and teacher with award-winning students.
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Elena Yárritu: Prizewinning soloist and teacher whose performances have included Carnegie Hall and the National Philharmonic of Moldova.​​
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More recent graduates and former students of Professor Furuta are already building exciting careers of their own, including:
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Anastasia Goldin: Successful private flute teacher and arts entrepreneur with a growing social media presence, including work as a TikTok creator.
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Isabella Grimes: Freelancer and private flute teacher in Monterey who has built a studio of approximately twenty students.
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Karen Yu: Successful private flute teacher based in Cupertino.
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Ying Wang: Professor of Flute at Santa Clara University and San Jose State
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Many of SJSU’s current flute students are already establishing their own private studios, building freelance careers, taking auditions, and coaching in schools. The SJSU flute studio is deeply career forward.
