Flautist Amanda Smith has always loved music. She began playing the piano when she was eight years old and the flute when she entered middle school. Opportunities throughout middle and high school convinced her that music should be her career. She became passionate about sharing music with people around her, and as such, hopes to teach music at the collegiate level. Music helped her to find her place in the world.

Amanda believes that the musical experience, both in playing and listening, has numerous roles. Music can be a stress reliever, an outlet, a form of communication, and a way to connect with others. She aims to help others experience music in a way that changes lives. In performance, she tells a story and influences the audience. Music has the power to create an impact, and she strives to facilitate that for audiences, students, and colleagues. Music should be fun and expressive. Amanda strives to create an environment where quality music-making can occur while maintaining an enjoyable mood.

Amanda double majored in her undergraduate studies at Idaho State University, earning a Bachelor's degree in Music Education and a Bachelor's Degree in Music Performance, specializing in the flute. She fell in love with the environment at ISU, which led her to become as involved with the music department as possible. She participated in the Symphonic Band, Concert Band, Jazz Band, Video Game Ensemble, Pep Band, Concert Choir, and the Chamber Orchestra. She was also privileged to be a drum major for the Bengal Marching Band for three years. Her most valued experiences were participating as a member of the Idaho State Civic Symphony, where she held the position of Principal Piccolo and Second Flute for four concert seasons. The highlight of her time was her first concert with the symphony, in which they performed Igor Stravinsky’s The Firebird Suite.

Amanda is now a graduate student at the University of Wyoming, seeking a Master’s Degree in Flute Performance, studying with Dr. Nicole Riner. Amanda is a member of the Wind Symphony and one of the McMurray Graduate Assistants with the Western Thunder Marching Band. 

In her free time, Amanda enjoys crocheting, playing her flute, watching shows, going for walks, and spending time with her family and friends.