Denise Westby grew up knowing that flute was her "thing". She was accepted into the studio of John May, Principal Flute with the Oregon Symphony at the age of 12, later going on to attend the University of Oregon, where she graduated with a degree in music performance. In addition to solo and ensemble performing, Ms. Westby was the President and Secretary-Treasurer of the American Federation of Musicians, Local #99 for 9 years and was the co-founder/orchestra manager/general manager of Sinfonia Concertante Orchestra for 16 years. She uses her variety of experiences in the music business as the adjunct professor for The Business of Music course. Music education is a cause that has defined her career. With a strong private flute studio in Tigard, she is also the founder and administrator of Flute Alliance, a partnership of professional performing musicians and organizations that come together to offer flute education and performance opportunities to enthusiasts of all ages, including the yearly Flute Boot Camps and the BreakAway Adult Flute Vacations.