Celebrating 20 years of flute playing, Michael Nguyen is a versatile flutist with experience performing on piccolo, C flute, as well as alto and bass flutes across a variety of settings. His musical journey began at the age of 9 after discovering a Teresa Teng flute and ocarina CD, sparking a lifelong love for the flute family. Michael holds a BBA in finance and marketing from the University of Houston, and applies the business acumen and adaptability skills from his wealth management career to his pursuits as a musician and ensemble leader,

Michael currently serves as Flute II/Piccolo with the Energy Corridor Houston Orchestra (ECHO). Previously, he held the Flute III/Piccolo chair with the Symphony North of Houston and has also performed as a substitute with the Houston Civic Symphony.

In 2020, Michael began exploring low flutes with the Brazos Breeze flute choir, where he still actively performs. He joined Flutes on the Bayou in 2021 and, in 2023, co-founded the Houston Concert Band Flute Ensemble, where he specializes in low flutes and consults on artistic and repertoire decisions.

As a content creator, Michael made a significant impact with his 2017 flute cover of Future’s Mask Off, which has garnered over 4.5 million views on YouTube.

In 2024, Michael co-founded Wildflower Winds, a professional flute trio dedicated to showcasing chamber music that highlights the different voices and textures of the flute family.

Kawanna Parsons brings a diverse musical background to Wildflower Winds, blending her passion for classical, jazz, and contemporary music. Originally from New York City, she holds a bachelor’s degree in music education and jazz composition from New York University (NYU). With her extensive training in both classical and jazz styles, Kawanna approaches flute performance with creativity and versatility, bringing a diverse perspective to the trio with experience doubling on other wind instruments in Broadway and professional theater settings.

Kawanna was previously principal flute of the Long Island Pops, and has performed with renowned ensembles such as the Nassau Pops and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Band. She has played at prestigious venues including Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, and Disney World, showcasing her artistry on some of the world’s most celebrated stages.

In 2023, Kawanna helped co-found the Houston Concert Band Flute Ensemble, where she currently consults on artistic decisions. Now based in Houston, Kawanna continues to share her love of music as both a performer and educator. As a co-founder of Wildflower Winds in 2024, she contributes her rich musical background, dynamic playing style, and expertise on the full range of the flute family, helping to bring depth and artistry to the trio’s performances.

Jennifer Richie is a seasoned flutist with over three decades of experience performing and collaborating in the Houston music community. She co-founded Wildflower Winds in 2024 and has played a pivotal role in shaping local ensemble music.

Jennifer’s passion for flute performance extends across multiple ensembles. She helped co-found the Houston Concert Band Flute Ensemble in 2023, where she continues to serve as an artistic consultant. She has also performed with the Houston Flute Choir, showcasing her versatility on C flute, alto flute, and bass flute. Additionally, she previously served as Vice President of the Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church Orchestra, where she played flute and piccolo, and was a member of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church’s “Bells of Praise” handbell ensemble.

Beyond her work with church ensembles, Jennifer was also a board member of the Bayou City Bells of Houston handbell choir, as well as the Gulf Coast Campanile.

Jennifer holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Texas A&M University-Kingsville, bringing a unique blend of technical expertise and artistic expression to her work.

Her dedication to music, both as a performer and consultant, continues to enrich the Houston musical landscape.