معرفی
William Flynn serves as Associate Professor of Guitar and Area Coordinator for Jazz Studies within the School of Music at Wichita State University's College of Fine Arts, where he has taught since 2013. An active composer and performer described by The Wichita Eagle as "playing a mean guitar," he directs jazz ensembles and teaches applied guitar, jazz pedagogy, arranging, and improvisation.
His academic background includes:
- Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies from Capital University (Columbus, Ohio)
- Master of Music in Jazz Studies from the University of North Texas
Flynn's scholarly work bridges performance practice with music education research, emphasizing jazz guitar technique, improvisational frameworks, and curriculum development. His contributions include educational materials published in Just Jazz Guitar magazine and the instructional book Jazz Guitar Duets (Mel Bay Publications), reflecting his commitment to advancing jazz pedagogy through accessible resources.
His creative output spans album production as a bandleader—including the Origin Records release Seaside—and collaborative recordings. The Grammy-nominated Lab 2012 album with the One O'Clock Lab Band exemplifies his expertise in big band jazz guitar performance and ensemble leadership.
Recognition for his work includes:
- University Faculty Excellence Award in Creative Activity (2019)
Flynn mentors emerging musicians through applied instruction and ensemble direction, while his national conference presentations and adjudication work extend his influence across jazz education. He maintains an active performance schedule with collegiate ensembles and his own projects, regularly appearing at Wichita venues like Mort's Martini and Cigar Bar and Chesters Chophouse & Wine Bar.
