As the lights went dim, the stage light shot through the darkness to illuminate a figure in a gleaming floral gown with a silver flute winking in the light. On stage was Carol Wincenc, the Grammy-nominated and critically acclaimed American flutist.

The Stony Brook University music department has seen a wide range of big names come in as their artists in residence since its beginning. World renowned soloist musicians such as celebrated flutist Carol Wincenc and widely recognized instrumental ensembles have been placed as head faculty members, giving students the ability to work side by side with great and experienced masters.