“Consistency really does matter”

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We are so excited for our first UFA Spotlight: Nancy J. Toone!

What brought you to Utah? Do you have a favorite location?I was born in Salt Lake City and raised in North Logan. I love the mountains of Utah.

How does the flute bring you joy?When I was 8 years old, my mom took me to see The Nutcracker Ballet at the Capitol Theatre. I had a perfect view of the flutist in the pit orchestra and spent the entire night watching him play that fabulous music. The sound of the flute was truly music to my soul. I love listening to flute music, performing on my flute, and teaching students to love the flute and music as much as I do!

What musical roles do you have in the community?I have been a flute teacher at several universities, but I’m happy to now teach in my home. I’ve been fortunate to be involved in many musical roles. In the past, I’ve participated in both the NFA and UFA. Currently, I perform with the Orchestra at Temple Square, serve as Assistant Principal Flutist with the Salt Lake Symphony, and frequently perform as Principal Flutist with the Bountiful Philharmonic. I’m also the director of the new Mountain West Flute Orchestra.

What else keeps you busy?I’m fortunate to have my two young granddaughters at my home once a week while their mom works. I love spending time with them! I just wish my other grandkids lived closer. To relax, I enjoy quilling handmade cards to give as gifts.

How do you find fulfillment in your musical life?Teaching and watching my students achieve their musical goals is incredibly fulfilling to me.

What do you do to maintain a work/life balance?Work/life balance? I think I’ve been a bit out of balance my entire life! But I have the most incredible husband, who has encouraged and supported me in everything I’ve chosen to do. I’m sure he has often thought I’m a little crazy, but nonetheless, he’s always been my greatest supporter and cheerleader.

What would you say to encourage a young flutist?To young flutists, I would say: Listen to the great flutists as often and in as many ways as you can. Be inspired and motivated! Find joy in listening and in playing—the one will make you better at the other. Also, consistency really does matter.

Do you have any exciting projects coming up?Directing the Mountain West Flute Orchestra and preparing for our audition for the 2026 NFA Convention in Portland next August is my current focus. I’m working on the program now, and rehearsals will begin in October after auditions have been held. I encourage serious flutists to audition—this is such an outstanding group!

Who is your favorite composer? What is your favorite orchestral piece to listen to? What are the top pieces you’ve performed that make your soul sing?Can you really have just one favorite composer? I love so many! But Gaubert’s music often makes me think of Monet paintings—I love both! It’s also hard to name just one favorite orchestral piece. I truly adore playing anything in an orchestra. But one piece that really speaks to my heart is the Fauré Requiem for choir and orchestra. It touches me deeply every time I play it.

What is something you can’t live without?Pizza and ice cream! I don’t eat them often, but I can’t live without them. Spinach artichoke pizza and almost any kind of ice cream—YUM!

What is your least favorite chore around the house?Washing bathtubs! Do you climb in? Kneel over and try to reach every spot? Stand and brace yourself against the opposite wall? Be hung from the ceiling and lowered into position? I just don’t have long enough arms to clean bathtubs easily. Give me the shower instead!


Thank you, Nancy! We are so fortunate to have you in our community.

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