Michelle Stanley is Associate Dean of Undergraduate Studies for the College of Liberal Arts and Professor of Music (flute) at Colorado State University. She teaches graduate students in flute for the School of Music, Theatre and Dance. She is also a regular performer in the Colorado Symphony Orchestra and is principal flute for the Pro Musica chamber orchestra and the Colardo Bach Ensemble and Festival. A strong advocate for the arts, Dr. Stanley was one of the founding creators of the LEAP Institute at Colorado State University.

Playing drums as a child in North Carolina in the seventies gave me some unique musical experiences. I was inspired by Gospel music, Country music, The Great American Songbook, and popular songs from the sixties and seventies. I was also introduced to Hip Hop, Disco, Rock, R&B, and Soul. Having all these varied styles of music made me an accepting person who gave all music encountered a complete opportunity for enjoyment. Because I was willing to “listen,” music came to me in two forms, music that resonated within me and music that repelled me.