WHAT MUSIC AND THE FLUTE MEAN TO ANDRÉ:
“The flute is a lifeline for me. I often joke, but I mean it, that without music life would not be worth living. When COVID-19 struck the thought, “I could die,” was on my mind. Therefore, to keep me alive and sane, keeping up with the flute helped me to feel joy even during a dark time, and has done so before on other occasions in life.”
As a musician, André has kept a daily practice regime, maintained a social media presence, enrolled in lessons with Sarah Steranka, participated in music ensembles (i.e. Carnegie Mellon University’s Chamber Ensemble and City Flutes), co-led a chamber ensemble, shared resources that pertain to the music community, and serves on the board of the Merrimack Valley Community Music School. Being classically trained and a dabbler in jazz, the music community in Pittsburgh has allowed him to explore his versatility as he has stepped into contemporary pieces from the late 20th and 21st centuries.
He recently won the 2023 National Flute Association’s Adult Amateur Competition with his two recorded pieces: Alfredo Casella’s Barcarola et Scherzo Op. 4 and Allison Loggins-Hull’s Homeland. As one of the winners, he was a part of the National Flute Association’s 2023 Fall virtual series where he performed Alonso Malik Pirio's piece, Sonata for Flute and Piano, and was interviewed live.
AUDIO
Preserving sounds is preserving memories. Therefore, take a listen to these selections, which bring unique stories and distinct emotions to life. As you explore your definitions of sound, I hope these inspire you to create your own and ponder your own musical journeys.
VIDEOS
Film unites many of our senses, and there is an opportunity here to immerse yourself within. Feel the joy not only in the sounds but through facial expressions, or chills as the performance’s environment influences our sensations. I hope these videos provide depth upon the musician(s) where sound alone cannot fully convey.