I'm a classically trained flutist who has broken free! I have reached beyond my classical training to delve into music that moves my mind, body, and soul. By stepping out of my comfort zone, a new space has opened up for personal and musical growth. Bevani is a variation on the Sanskrit word, "Bhavani," which translates as "Illuminating, Creating, Imagining." This name embodies the way of being in the world that I want to capture with my music and my performances. I live in Seattle where I teach private flute lessons, in person and via Skype, and perform regularly at venues around town. My YouTube Channel has grown to over 20,000 subscribers. Here, you'll find a variety of cover songs, classical favorites and flute tutorials for your enjoyment. Be sure to subscribe to my channel, and follow my Facebook page for daily posts about my flute journey! I have just finished recording two original albums! 'Sacred Sounds' is a meditation album highlighting Native Flutes from around the world, available for purchase on iTunes. My pop album 'Break Free' will be released December 1st with pre-orders available soon. My easy listening Classical album 'Sacred Songs Within' is now available for purchase on my website and iTunes. Q & A What is your real name? My real name is Beverly (personally I think it's a bit old lady-ish, but still love it). I first started using my stage name Bevani with my Indian fusion band I joined in Santa Barbara, 2009. My other band mates already had their Indian stage names and encouraged me to find mine. Then my astrologist also insisted I use a stage name, so how could I resist? : ) What types of flutes do you play? My silver flute is a Brannen model. I also play the Native American flute, crystal flute, alto flute, bansuri, and penny whistle. How many siblings do you have? I'm the oldest of 6 kids - I have 4 sisters and 1 brother and I love them all a lot. When did you start playing the flute? I started at age 7 with the Suzuki method, which emphasizes listening and memorizing music first before reading. My teacher was Heidi Ehle. Where did you go to college? I did my undergraduate degree in Flute Performance at the University of Puget Sound with Karla Flygare and my Masters degree in Flute Performance at the University of California Santa Barbara with Jill Felber. Who is one of your most inspiring teachers? While I've been blessed with many, Kim Rosen is one of my most inspiring mentors. I have participated in many of her workshops and am drawn to her ability to stay true to herself and show immense compassion to others. I believe this is possible when a person has discovered their own inner critic and learns to love all parts of themselves, even the unattractive parts. Who are some of your most influential artists? Lindsey Stirling, Rhonda Larson, Manose, Greg Patillo, David Garret, Ian Anderson and The Piano Guys. What genre of music do you play? I play everything from pop, classical, dub step, new-age, movie soundtracks and more! What are some of your other interests? Yoga, skiing, reading, sun, travel, family time, movies, green smoothies, and self-growth!