Arts Academy Flute Instructor Nancy Stagnitta joins Paul Simon for North American tour
Stagnitta will perform with a group of nine accomplished musicians, many of whom are Simon’s longtime bandmates.
Renowned flutist and Arts Academy Instructor of Flute Nancy Stagnitta will be joining legendary musician Paul Simon for an extensive 55-concert tour across the United States and Canada this spring and summer. The tour runs from April 4 to Aug. 3, 2025, featuring Simon alongside an ensemble of accomplished musicians.
"I'm thrilled to join Paul Simon and his extraordinary ensemble of nine musicians for this tour. Rehearsals have begun, and I'm feeling so inspired, grateful, and excited to be a part of what I know will be a memorable experience for Paul's fans," Stagnitta shared.
Stagnitta will showcase her versatility on this tour, performing on flute, alto flute, piccolo, and a collection of world flutes crafted from wood, cane, and bamboo. She will also contribute background vocals to the performances.
Paul Simon has earned 16 GRAMMY Awards and 34 nominations throughout his career, including a Recording Academy Lifetime Achievement Award he shared with Art Garfunkel. He rose to prominence in the 1960s as half of Simon & Garfunkel and earned public acclaim for "The Sound of Silence" (1965), "Mrs. Robinson" (1968), and more. His solo ventures included the 1986 album Graceland, which included beloved tracks such as "Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes” and "You Can Call Me Al". Simon continues to charm audiences with familiar favorites and selections from his most recent album, Seven Psalms.
His touring ensemble includes an impressive lineup of GRAMMY Award-winning artists, including several who have been Simon’s bandmates for many years. Featured musicians on the A Quiet Celebration tour include legendary drummer Steve Gadd (known for his work with Steely Dan and Chick Corea), cellist Eugene Friesen (Paul Winter Consort), saxophonist Andy Snitzer (Rolling Stones, Chris Botti), pianist Mick Rossi (Philip Glass Ensemble), and percussionist Jamey Haddad (Sting, Snarky Puppy).
Stagnitta will take a leave of absence from her teaching position for the second half of the spring semester to participate in this opportunity, returning to her full-time teaching responsibilities in fall 2025. In her absence, Arts Academy flute students will work with Academy alum Anthony Trionfo, who is a critically acclaimed flutist, educator, and Young Concert Artists winner.
