Flutist Ruth Cavanaugh (she/her) is an advocate for lifelong self-expression through the arts. 

In addition to serving as the conductor for the West Suburban Flute Orchestra, Ms. Cavanaugh is the Director of the Elgin Youth Symphony Flute Choir, where she enjoys programming repertoire that celebrates the distinct characteristics of the flute family.  

Ms. Cavanaugh recently joined the Northeastern Illinois University faculty, working with future K-12 Music Educators. Ms. Cavanaugh had a many year career in the Elgin District U-46 schools, including the Visual & Performing Arts Academy within Larkin High School.  

Ms. Cavanaugh began playing cuatro, recorder and flute in Caracas, Venezuela and is currently studying Brazilian Choro music. She welcomes musical collaborations with musicians of all ages and enjoys teaching privately.  

Her awards include the Surdna Arts Teacher Fellowship, the Northwestern University Music Teacher Fellowship and the 2022 Elgin Symphony Orchestra Arts Educator Award.