Amber "Flutienastiness" Underwood (b. 1979)
Updated: Aug 4, 2021
About
Jazz flutist, educator, band director, model and vocalist Amber Underwood is a native of Kansas City and has been entertaining and performing music since the tender age of 8. Beginning her musical journey on the piano and soon after began playing classical flute.
While in college, Amber discovered Jazz and became intrigued with the art form inspired by musical influences of Bobbi Humphrey, Hubert Laws, Frank Wess, Herbie Mann and Nestor Torres and found a love for the art form. At age 20, Amber graduated from Wichita State University with a Bachelor of Music in Flute Performance and by 23 she completed a Masters of Arts in Arts Administration and Music Business from the University of Missouri Kansas City Conservatory and continued her education with a second Master’s degree in Education and Teaching Music from Pittsburgh State University.
In the beginning of 2014, the Amber Underwood Project was formed with the mission to showcase an instrument that is normally used as an auxiliary instrument in jazz but now as a solo instrument. AUP is a modern and fresh take on smooth jazz and R&B sounds with a touch of Latin, Funk and Gospel. AUP uses the rich tones and colors of the flute to interpret the various styles and genres of jazz.
"Rooted in the tradition, but aware and adept with contemporary forms, Underwood's many influences are on full display in this multifaceted album."
–Kansas City Jazz Ambassadors on Amber's latest album, This Is Me
Amber has been a presence in the Kansas City jazz scene making a place and a voice for her instrument. Amber has opened for Kirk Whalum and has performed alongside a host of other artist. Amber is our modern day soul and contemporary jazz flautist and a force to be reckoned with. In 2020, Amber released her newest album, This Is Me.