The NFA is pleased to announce that the 2024 Myrna Brown International Scholarship has been awarded to Nchimunya Siachaba. Siachaba, a resident of Zambia, is a flutist and music teacher with a background in computer engineering. 

“I am absolutely over the moon and filled with joy to have been recognized as a trailblazer for flute music in my community and to be the very first Zambian recipient of the prestigious NFA MBIS award for 2024,” says Siachaba, whose complete statement is included below. “This is truly a dream come true, and I am beyond grateful for this incredible honor.”

The Scholarship provides funding for Siachaba to travel to San Antonio, Texas to present at the 52nd Annual NFA Convention in August. His presentation, “Weaving Experiences into Melodies: Showcasing the Beauty, Diversity, & Evolution of Zambian Flute Music,” will feature music that evokes the landscapes and culture of his native country, and is scheduled to take place on Thursday, August 1 at 2:30 p.m. in Room 214D (schedule subject to change). 

The biennial Myrna Brown International Scholarship was established to honor the NFA’s first executive director, for her dedication to the National Flute Association. During her tenure, Brown organized the first exchanges with flutists from China and Russia, setting the stage for the NFA’s warm relations with international flutists.   

The scholarship provides financial assistance to a flutist from a country outside of the United States to attend and present at the NFA Convention. Recipients gain the opportunity to share their unique musical perspectives and experiences with a diverse group of flutists, promoting an enriching, cross-cultural dialogue.

"Through the MBIS, we shape the future of music, nurturing talent and celebrating diversity," says Ana Paola Rincones, who coordinated this year's application cycle. "It is an absolute honor to help with opportunities for flutists worldwide, fostering artistic excellence and meaningful impact on the lives of musicians and the communities they touch."

Funding for the Scholarship is provided solely through the NFA Endowment Myrna Brown Fund. 

The 52nd Annual NFA Convention will be held from Aug. 1-4, 2024 at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas. Learn more at nfaonline.org/convention

“I am absolutely over the moon and filled with joy to have been recognized as a trailblazer for flute music in my community and to be the very first Zambian recipient of the prestigious NFA MBIS award for 2024. This is truly a dream come true, and I am beyond grateful for this incredible honor.

"It serves as a reminder that our world is interconnected in ways we may not always realize and that our dreams can indeed become a reality. I am thrilled at the opportunity to share the hidden treasure of Zambian flute music with the world and to showcase the rich cultural heritage of my country through music.

"I am profoundly thankful to the National Flute Association for this amazing opportunity and for believing in my talent and passion for music. This award is not just a personal achievement, but a celebration of the beauty and diversity of music that unites us all. I am excited for the journey ahead and look forward to inspiring and connecting with others through the universal language of music. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

-Nchimunya Siachaba