Summer Kinnan, a sophomore at Valley High School in West Des Moines, began her musical journey in 1st grade with piano lessons. In 5th grade, she joined elementary band and started playing the flute. Since 6th grade, she has taken private flute lessons with Dr. Kimberly Helton and also studies piano with Cynthia Giunta. At Valley, Summer participates in Symphony Band and Marching Band. She has performed in several honor bands, including the Iowa All-State Band (2024, 2025), Drake Honor Band Wind Ensemble (2024, 2025), SCIBA Honor Band (2022, 2023), and the All Iowa 8th Grade Honor Band (2024). Summer enjoys solo competitions, winning the 2024 IOWinds Alliance Young Artist Competition for grades 9-10 and placing top in her division at the Perry Band Olympics (2nd place in 2024, 1st place in 2025). She also often accompanies her church choir on the flute. Outside of music, Summer enjoys volleyball and spending time with friends and family.