Sonja Giles

Sonja Giles is a Professor of Flute and Associate Chair in the Department of Music and Theatre at Iowa State University. She holds a DMA in Flute Performance from the University of Minnesota (2005), an MM from the University of Iowa (1999), and a BM from the University of Alabama (1995). Dr. Giles is a renowned performer with the Des Moines Symphony Orchestra, Orchestra Iowa, and National Touring Musicals, and serves as a Miyazawa Performing Artist. Her pedagogical work includes authoring The Melody Book series and coordinating the National Flute Association’s Collegiate Flute Choir competition.

Her teaching focuses on Aural Theory, flute literature, and pedagogy, alongside leadership in the Winds and Percussion Division. She has presented at National Flute Conventions and integrates performance practice with educational innovation.

• Awards: University Award for Early Excellence in Teaching

Her research emphasizes pedagogical strategies for wind instruments, with a focus on Marcel Moyse’s methodologies and ensemble performance excellence.