Name: Kalliopi Katsiris
Major: Flute Performance
Hometown: Cedar Rapids, IA
Planned Graduation Date: Spring 2024
In addition to Music, what are you involved with here at ISU and beyond?
I play in the ISU Wind Ensemble, and ISU Symphony Orchestra, and have been a recurring guest in the JAZZONE Ensemble. I work with Dr. Christina Svec as an undergraduate research assistant and have been able to continue this research under the Dean's High Impact Award for Undergraduate Research. In addition to my research assistant position, I am also the Teaching Assistant for Aural Theory I and II. Being able to work in this position has taught me a lot about the future career I wish to go into, and has been one of my favorite experiences at Iowa State. I have had the opportunity to participate in masterclass lessons with Cobus du Toit, Erika Boysen, Nicole Esposito, Kim Helton, James Blanchard, and Nichole Chamberlain while at ISU. Beyond Iowa State, I decided to get involved in competing, and I won the National Flute Association's Collegiate Flute Choir Competition. At NFA's CFC I was able to work directly with Gareth McLearnon in Chicago. Just last fall I also was able to perform with Greg Pattillo on some of his arrangements here at Iowa State. I am also involved in the business department and will graduate with a general business minor this May.
What music projects are you working on right now, have coming up, or have recently completed?
I am one of the winners of the ISU 2024 Concerto Competition and am currently working with the orchestra to prepare for our performance on March 2nd. I also have just finished the last of my graduate school auditions and now I am working on the set for my senior recital which will be April 6th at 1:30 pm.
What is your favorite thing about your experience at Iowa State?
My favorite thing about my experience at Iowa State is the numerous opportunities that were made available to me throughout my time here outside of just classes. I have been able to teach, research, perform as a soloist, and travel the world with the Wind Ensemble, the list goes on!
Why did you choose the Department of Music and Theatre?
I chose the Department of Music and Theatre at Iowa State because of the faculty and special attention we receive as there are no masters or doctoral students in this program. All of the faculty in the department have been extremely helpful throughout my time here, especially towards the end. I would not have been able to accomplish all that I have without their support and guidance.
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to continue my education and get my Masters in Flute Performance.
Any words of wisdom for prospective students?
Seek out opportunities that others do not, you will be pleasantly surprised to see what "going left when everyone goes right" will do for you.