The Descent & The Bloom

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Ernesta Chicklowski is in her 25th year as a music educator. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music education from Florida State University and the University of South Florida. Mrs. Chicklowski is the music specialist at Roosevelt Elementary in Tampa, where she has spent the past 19 years building a vibrant music program. Under her leadership, Roosevelt’s ensembles have thrived. Her award-winning children's choruses have performed at the Florida Music Educators Association Conference, Disney Magic Music Days, America Sings, the Florida State Fair, City of Tampa Spotlight Concerts, and many other community and civic events. 

Mrs. Chicklowski is also the owner of The Studio of South Tampa, where she directs two vocal performance groups and a youth musical theatre program. A highly sought-after clinician, conductor, and presenter, she is known for her dedication to choral singing and leadership in music education. She has served as President of the Florida Elementary Music Educators Association and was named Florida Elementary Music Educator of the Year. She holds certifications in Orff, World Drumming, and Modern Band, and is a three-time Grammy Music Educator Award Finalist. 

Robert Neale is a passionate flutist and educator with a deep commitment to music and community. A graduate of the University of South Florida, he holds degrees in Flute Performance and Music Education. In addition to performing with the Florida Wind Band, Robert has appeared as principal flutist with the Tampa Bay Symphony and the St. Petersburg Wind Symphony, and regularly performs with The Florida Orchestra. He’s also a dedicated chamber musician and member of the award-winning Flutes4 quartet. When he’s not performing or teaching, Robert enjoys spending time with his dogs and working on creative home projects, all while maintaining a full-time career in property management. His dedication to sharing the joy of music continues to inspire students and audiences alike. 

Amy Collins brings decades of experience as a performer, educator, and entrepreneur to the Florida Wind Band. She serves as Principal Oboe for The Venice Symphony and The Villages Philharmonic and teaches at several institutions including the University of South Florida, where she also founded and directs the USF Da’ “Bull” Reed Camp. Amy’s performance credits span the globe, from Broadway shows and ballet companies to concerts with artists like Andrea Bocelli and Josh Groban. A champion of chamber music, she performs with the ensemble Amici, known for its innovative programming. Amy is also the founder of Stellar Oboe Products, a leading brand trusted by oboists worldwide. Whether on stage, in the classroom, or behind the scenes, Amy is passionate about connecting people through music and helping the next generation of musicians thrive. 

A proud Tampa Bay native, Tony Negron is a dynamic clarinetist, educator, and advocate for musical growth. He serves as Principal Clarinet for the Florida Wind Band and performs with ensembles across the Southeast, including the Greenville Symphony Orchestra and Florida Philharmonic. Tony is equally at home on stage with orchestras, chamber groups, and major touring acts like Il Divo and Sarah Brightman. A passionate educator, Tony maintains a large private studio, teaches at Hillsborough Community College, and has led masterclasses both nationally and internationally. His series, The Mosaic Musician, reflects his belief in music as a multifaceted, lifelong journey. With a heart for education and a talent for performance, Tony continues to inspire musicians at every level. 

J. Javi Rodriguez is a versatile bassoonist and educator dedicated to nurturing the next generation of musicians. He holds music degrees from the University of South Florida and Baylor University, and currently teaches band and orchestra at Madison Middle School. He also serves as Adjunct Professor of Bassoon at both the University of Tampa and Hillsborough Community College. As a performer, Javi has appeared with ensembles including The Venice Symphony, Florida Wind Band, and Gulf Coast Symphony. Known for his craftsmanship as a bassoon reed maker and his engaging teaching style, Javi brings energy and artistry to every musical setting. He believes in the power of music to unite communities and inspire lifelong creativity.