Omar Wingo

Degree: B.A. Music with a Clarinet Concentration
Graduation Year: 2025
Hometown: Kings Mountain, NC

How did you first get interested in music?
In elementary school, I really enjoyed music class but did not realize that this could be a career. As a young child, I originally wanted to be some type of first responder until my parents allowed me to watch an episode of the hit reality t.v. show COPS (thanks, Mom and Dad)! When band sign ups happened at the end of my 6th grade year, I haphazardly signed up as a flute player. After starting a band in the 7th grade, I was hooked. From there, I was so engrossed in the band that I learned the basics of playing the entire woodwind family seemingly through osmosis. Bassoon became my primary instrument from 8-12th grade through my first semester of college. After much thought, I made the switch to saxophone, then when I came to UNC Charlotte, I decided to switch yet again and was accepted into the clarinet studio.

What kind of career do you hope to have?
I have been performing music professionally in the Carolinas since 2010, as a private music educator since 2014, and an Army Reserve Musician since 2017. I hope to continue this trajectory and add “licensed K-12 music educator” to my résumé. Another option I have is to go active duty in the U.S. Army then comes back to civilian life in the aforementioned roles!

What is your favorite thing about the Department of Music?
My favorite part of the Music Department is the sense of community. In my experience, the faculty always encourages the students to be respectful amongst themselves and the students follow through.

Do you participate in any community activities or work in the Charlotte arts community?
I currently perform in two local big bands, Ol’ 74 Jazz (based in Rutherford County), and The Stardusters (based in Gaston County) both in the 2nd alto saxophone chair. I also volunteer in the Gaston Symphonic Band currently as a trombonist.

When you are not in class, studying, or working, what do you like to do for fun?
I enjoy playing video games and playing non-woodwind instruments (horn and trombone).