Fiona Karbel

Hometown

Rancho Cucamonga, California

Education

Central Washington University, Master of Music, 2020

West Chester University of Pennsylvania, Bachelor of Music, 2015

Instrument

Trombone

Biography

Fiona Karbel has been teaching since 2015, as a 5th grade band director in the Etiwanda School District. She plays the euphonium and trombone, and has been a loyal member to a great number of community ensembles across the inland empire over the years including performances with orchestras including the Moreno Valley Wind Symphony, Redlands Chamber Orchestra, University of California Riverside Orchestra.

She has performed in many bands such as the Riverside Concert Band & Swing Ensemble, Pomona Concert Band, Redlands 4th of July Band, Empire Wind Ensemble and Camp Carleton Civil War Band. Fiona has also participated in different ensembles such as the Golden State British Brass Band, Sozo Jazz Band, American Bavarian Brass Band, Camp Carleton Civil War Band and the Tuba 4's Quartet.

She earned her Bachelor of Music from West Chester University of Pennsylvania in 2015, and her Master of Music from Central Washington University (American Band College) in 2020.

In 2022, Fiona was awarded 1st place in the adult division solo competition at the International Euphonium and Tuba Festival.

What inspired you to go into music?

As soon as I picked up the euphonium in 7th grade beginning band, I immediately fell in love with playing, and soon after that I added playing the trombone because they are so much alike!

What is an interesting fact about you?

I grew up in Wilmington, Delaware.

What activities do you enjoy in your spare time?

I enjoy hiking, eating a variety of foods, taking a lot of naps, and playing Nintendo Switch.

What are you most excited for about this 2024-2025 season?

Playing classic orchestral literature, and meeting more musicians.

Favorite Musical Quote:

"There are two instruments. The one in the hand, and the one in the head."