BA music studies major Erica Wilkins traveled to Orlando, Florida over the weekend to compete in the finals of the Florida Flute Association’s Nancy Clew Eller Artist Competition. A nation-wide competition with no age limit, Erica was one of 5 finalists chosen for the finals held in Orlando during the FFA Flute Convention January 26-28, 2024.

For the final round, all competitors were required to perform the French standard “Nocturne et Allegro Scherzando” by Philippe Gaubert in addition to works of each player’s choosing to complete a 20-minute recital program. After the Gaubert, Erica and Omaha-based pianist Christi Zuniga performed Valerie Coleman’s “Fanmi Imèn” and the technical showcase, “Washington Irving: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” from Christopher Caliendo’s “Ghost” Sonata No. 8.

The announcement was made during the Saturday night Gala concert that the judges – Bart Feller, Victoria DeLano and Mihoko Wantanabe – selected Erica for the top prize for which she was presented a certificate and a $1,000 check. As the winner she performed on the closing concert during which she captivated the audience with her mesmerizing interpretation of the Coleman, this time with FFA convention pianist Allison Franzetti by her side.

About her convention experience Erica wrote in a Facebook post: “It was wonderful being there [at the convention]; everyone was so nice. I left with a great new musical experience, constructive comments and advice…and a new alto flute!” To watch the final round of the Nancy Clew Eller competition and hear Erica’s winning performance, visit https://www.facebook.com/FloridaFluteAssociation/videos/2111589262526637