Kimberly Helton

Kimberly Helton is a Music Teaching Artist and Lecturer in the Department of Music at Simpson College. She has held roles as Instructor of Flute since 2005, previously teaching at Grinnell College (1995-2005) and Drake University as a visiting professor (2000-2001). Her expertise spans orchestral, chamber, and solo performance, alongside flute pedagogy and music theory instruction. Dr. Helton actively performs with groups such as Orchestra Iowa, Des Moines Symphony, and chamber ensembles like the Polaris Wind Quintet, which she founded.

Education:

• Doctorate of Musical Arts (University of Iowa, 2002)
• Master of Music (Drake University, 1993)
• Bachelor of Music (Brigham Young University, 1991)

Research interests include flute repertoire, music history, and performance techniques. She has received awards such as the University of Iowa Performance Fellowship and the 2002 NFA Chamber Music Competition win. Helton also maintains a private flute studio and contributes to the Des Moines Area Suzuki School.

Performance highlights include soloist roles with multiple symphonies, leadership in the Polaris Wind Quintet’s CD release, and collaborations at events like the Iowa Flute Festival. She regularly participates in master classes and residencies, including the Aberystwyth Music Festival in Wales.