Samantha Flores is a dynamic performer-educator who is passionate about teaching artist work, community development, and using music as a restorative tool for social change. She currently serves as Program Manager at the OrchKids East Site hub – Highlandtown Elementary/Middle School #237.

Samantha began her teaching career in El Sistema inspired programs in Tijuana, Mexico. Since then, she has worked in social change programs including BSO OrchKids, Opus Community Project, Núcleos de Baja California, and the Boys and Girls Club of México. Additionally, she has coached youth orchestras and taught in various after-school Suzuki programs in the East Coast of the United States.

Always expressing an interest in growing and bringing together local communities, Samantha’s community outreach collaborations include chamber music performances in public schools with Baltimore’s The Concert Truck, and the 2017-18 Artist Residency at the Collington Retirement Community (Bowie, MD) where her service as a curator and performer was recognized in the New York Times.

Samantha received her Master’s degree in cello performance from the University of Maryland, and a Master’s degree in Suzuki Pedagogy and Chamber Music from East Carolina University. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in cello performance from Western Illinois University.

In addition to her work at OrchKids, Samantha freelances with ensembles and musicians around Baltimore City and the DMV. She enjoys swing dancing, spontaneous jam sessions, poetry, and hidden food gems in the Highlandtown community.