Donate to help Kyrese get a new flute

I recently graduated from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in May of 2022 with a degree in Flute Performance, and I am now looking for graduate programs to apply to for the 2023-24 school year.

The flute I currently play on is a Sankyo CF 201. That means I play on a handmade flute that has a sterling silver head joint and silver-plated body tubing and mechanism. More information about my flute can be found on Sankyo's website. Not too long after I got this flute, I named her Barbara (Barb for short). Videos of some of my performances can be found on my YouTube channel.

Barb has allowed me to advance my career as a musician in a variety of ways. Barb has gotten me into UNC Greensboro with some scholarship money, perform in a variety of ensembles across the South-Eastern region, and win numerous competitions such as the UNC Greensboro School of Music Student Artist Competition. I must note that Barb was acquired through the hard work of my high school flute teacher, Dr. Kelly Nivison, who created a GoFundMe about 6 years ago. While Barb has served me very well, it is time for an upgrade that will continue to support me through my graduate studies and into my professional career. I hope to get a new flute by the time I audition for graduate programs, which would be around February 2023.

In August, I traveled to Chicago to attend the annual National Flute Association Convention. This was made possible by the efforts of Flutistry Boston. While I was there, I tried flutes that allowed me to sing in a way that felt more genuine to my developing sound as a flutist than Barb. Some of my top picks included flute brands such as Powell, Mancke, and Haynes, which ranged from $12,000-16,000. When I was in High School, my flute teacher and I were able to get Barb for around $4,000. While this is a major investment, I am confident in my ability to make the most out of it by continuing to work hard and hone my craft as a musician.

Along with this GoFundMe, I plan to give a couple of performances in North Carolina to highlight the progress I have made so far with Barb. I would greatly appreciate any support in the form of spreading the word or financial assistance. I would also like to offer a variety of gifts in return to anyone who chooses to donate listed below:

$20: A uniquely crafted thank you message

$40: A copy of my new piece for solo flute and digital media: meditation i

$100: Everything included above, as well as a personalized solo flute improvisation

Kind regards,

kw