"...a lovely performance of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's ravishing Flute Concerto No. 2 by flutist Karen Romig...Romig produced a line of consistent beauty and delicate emphasis."
Karen Romig - flute
Karen Romig began playing the flute at the age of eight. In high school and college, Ms. Romig continued to develop her artistic abilities under the tutelage of Arthur Hoberman, flutist with the famed 20th Century-Fox studio orchestra. Since college, she has studied with Bonita Boyd, Julius Baker, Anne Giles, Amy Porter, Rhonda Larson, and Carol Wincenc. Ms. Romig graduated summa cum laude from Chapman University in Flute Performance. She has won numerous awards including first place in the Sigma Alpha Iota Competition and first place in the Musical Arts Club of Orange County Competition. Ms. Romig has played in orchestras in California and Florida, including the Venice Symphony Orchestra. She has been a featured soloist at various venues including the Crystal Cathedral at the age of 14, the Palos Verdes Peninsula Young Artists Music Festival, with the Venice Symphony, the Venice Chamber Orchestra, and the South Shore Symphony.
Christopher Romig - piano
Christopher Romig plunged into piano lessons at the age of seven after attending a live performance by Liberace. Beginning on a three-octave toy piano, Chris soon advanced to an upright piano borrowed from his grandparents’ home. He began playing frequently at his home church in Adelphi, Maryland, and became the church organist at 14. During his undergraduate study at the University of Maryland, Mr. Romig performed extensively as a pianist in the Washington D.C. area, entertaining audiences with a variety of piano styles. As a graduate student at Princeton Theological Seminary, he served as Associate Chapel Organist at the Seminary and Director of Music at the Witherspoon Street Presbyterian Church. Pastor Romig continues his musical avocation as an ordained minister, bringing an artist’s creativity to worship planning at Venice Presbyterian Church, regularly offering meditative piano music at worship services, and accompanying his wife and other musicians for concerts and special events.
Reviews
"I met Karen Romig as a participant in our weekend of master classes and workshops we offered in Michigan. Karen immediately stood out from the other participants for several reasons. She has a very gentle spirit, wonderfully contrasted with an astute curiosity and eagerness to learn. Hands-down, she asked the most probing questions in the workshops, and I saw her as a seasoned leader among her peers, though I doubt she would even recognize this quality in describing herself. She also stood out in her beautiful flute playing: here is a woman who has unlimited abilities both technically and musically, all delivered ‘effortlessly'. This is what we hope for every performer, and Karen already has a firm foundation in the most important elements of playing beautifully: poise---how she presents herself both on stage and off; believability---the ability to play any piece of music and really communicate it to the audience; musical sophistication--- where the phrasing comes through above any technical aspects required in playing flute."
"Last night's concert is still fresh in mind and I had to write you to tell you how superlative you were. I have been involved in musical circles for over 35 years, both as a singer, producer and promoter. I honestly have to say that your artistry was one of the more outstanding performances I have been privileged to see and hear. Your variety of music was impressive. In particular, the Fantaisie Brillante on themes from Carmen was outstanding. Those sitting around me were as captivated as I was and never wanted it to end. Your fingering, breath control and poise were as polished as anything I have ever seen in concert. My thanks and congratulations to you for the dedication you have shown which was evidenced by your brilliant performance. I predict a great career for you and wish you the success you deserve."
[Karen's] performance with the Venice Symphony on Friday evening was absolutely superb! (Her) presence on the stage brightened the entire auditorium, and (her) music was outstanding. I learned from conversations with people who heard the Saturday concerts that those performances equaled what occurred on Friday. Our audiences could not restrain themselves from giving applause after each movement of the piece. At the conclusion, in total unison, everyone stood to give Karen an ovation that lasted several minutes. It was truly a fine moment in history for The Venice Symphony. Whenever I hear Karen play the results are always the same. She displays great skill, great tone, and extracts enormous positive audience response. We all benefit from having such wonderful talent within our midst.
Karen performs with the Venice Symphony and is a true asset to the orchestra. She possesses an excellent technique and a beautiful sound. Her musicianship is impeccable, and Karen can always be counted on for a flawless performance. She is prepared for every rehearsal, and it is a pleasure to work with her. Karen is poised, self-confident, and has the greatest personal integrity. I give her my highest recommendation.
...[The] program featuring the two of you and your separate but equal musical talents was tremendously entertaining, and was one of the highlights of Summerfest 2010!
Comments from the Romigs' Concert Goers
"...a lovely performance of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's ravishing Flute Concerto No. 2 by flutist Karen Romig...Romig produced a line of consistent beauty and delicate emphasis."
"I met Karen Romig as a participant in our weekend of master classes and workshops we offered in Michigan. Karen immediately stood out from the other participants for several reasons. She has a very gentle spirit, wonderfully contrasted with an astute curiosity and eagerness to learn. Hands-down, she asked the most probing questions in the workshops, and I saw her as a seasoned leader among her peers, though I doubt she would even recognize this quality in describing herself. She also stood out in her beautiful flute playing: here is a woman who has unlimited abilities both technically and musically, all delivered ‘effortlessly'. This is what we hope for every performer, and Karen already has a firm foundation in the most important elements of playing beautifully: poise---how she presents herself both on stage and off; believability---the ability to play any piece of music and really communicate it to the audience; musical sophistication--- where the phrasing comes through above any technical aspects required in playing flute."
"Last night's concert is still fresh in mind and I had to write you to tell you how superlative you were. I have been involved in musical circles for over 35 years, both as a singer, producer and promoter. I honestly have to say that your artistry was one of the more outstanding performances I have been privileged to see and hear. Your variety of music was impressive. In particular, the Fantaisie Brillante on themes from Carmen was outstanding. Those sitting around me were as captivated as I was and never wanted it to end. Your fingering, breath control and poise were as polished as anything I have ever seen in concert. My thanks and congratulations to you for the dedication you have shown which was evidenced by your brilliant performance. I predict a great career for you and wish you the success you deserve."
[Karen's] performance with the Venice Symphony on Friday evening was absolutely superb! (Her) presence on the stage brightened the entire auditorium, and (her) music was outstanding. I learned from conversations with people who heard the Saturday concerts that those performances equaled what occurred on Friday. Our audiences could not restrain themselves from giving applause after each movement of the piece. At the conclusion, in total unison, everyone stood to give Karen an ovation that lasted several minutes. It was truly a fine moment in history for The Venice Symphony. Whenever I hear Karen play the results are always the same. She displays great skill, great tone, and extracts enormous positive audience response. We all benefit from having such wonderful talent within our midst.
Karen performs with the Venice Symphony and is a true asset to the orchestra. She possesses an excellent technique and a beautiful sound. Her musicianship is impeccable, and Karen can always be counted on for a flawless performance. She is prepared for every rehearsal, and it is a pleasure to work with her. Karen is poised, self-confident, and has the greatest personal integrity. I give her my highest recommendation.
...[The] program featuring the two of you and your separate but equal musical talents was tremendously entertaining, and was one of the highlights of Summerfest 2010!
"When you play the flute in church the sound is so pure and wonderful for me. You play from the heart and soul. And for this gift, I am most grateful."
"To God be the glory. Great things He has done – to pair the two of you together to share your musical talents with us. What a way to start the concert series. Your program was great from beginning to end. The overused word seems appropriate – awesome!"
"Bravo! Your performance at last evening's concert was brilliant. We thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it. Thank you for sharing your talents with us."
"We all felt overwhelmed and blessed with the concert Friday night. The variety was special and Highland Cathedral is a favorite – now a memory I will never forget."
"The entire performance was a pleasure, and most interesting. And it was a delight to listen to the virtuosity of Mrs. Romig, and to observe such an excellent combination of instrumental music."
"What a wonderful evening I enjoyed on Friday. Your concert was beyond and above anything I expected. You are both such superior performers! Karen, your flute was beautiful but you were so beautiful you looked like a royal princess. In addition to your playing, you have a great sense of style. You are to be greatly admired. Chris, I loved the solo pieces you played. I only wish we could have heard more solos by you. You have such talent."
"What a blessing you both are to all of us at Venice Presbyterian Church. How very proud of you are we! You both were so radiant sharing your love for each other and it made the audience feel that love for a magical evening!! I was so moved."
"Last Friday night's concert was a wonderful evening of beautiful music. Thank you for sharing your talents and joy of music with all of us. We look forward to more performances in the future."
"It's difficult to put into words what my heartfelt during and after your concert this past Friday night. ‘Thank you' just does not begin to say what my heart wants to say. You both are so gifted and I feel blessed to be on the receiving end of the beautiful music you make together."
"Thank you is far from adequate for the beautiful music you shared with us last night at Jacaranda Trace. You not only shared your God given talent, but your many years of study and practice that makes both of you the professionals you are today. You are beautiful together as your love for each other, God and family only add to your talent! Each time I hear you it is a very special treat that I deeply appreciate!"
"I have been on a high ever since last Wednesday Lenten concert! How blessed we are to have you both in the midst of our church family, sharing so generously of your very special talents. The concert was beautiful, both entertaining and inspiring. The Doppler number was awesome, Karen – a real treat to hear. And The Holy City brought me (and many around me) to tears with its beauty. Thank you so much. We are truly blessed, and we are grateful for all you have added to our lives."
"I just want to add my bravos for your beautiful music you shared with so many folks last Wednesday. I am truly in awe of your musical gifts! God must have ‘smiled' when He brought you two together."
"Many, many thanks for that concert yesterday! You both played beautifully and gave all of us a time of rest for the soul. Wonderful way to use those talents!"
"I am so glad I was able to attend your Lenten presentation of beautiful music. Thank you. I had heard you, Chris, play the piano so knew of your tremendous talent. However, I had no idea how very lovely Karen's flute music would be. She could outshine most of the recorded CD's of flutists I have heard. She could join the Irish group of women that sometimes performs on PBS."
"Fantastic! What a lovely concert. Thank you and Chris for a delightful inspiring afternoon. How blessed we are to have you both in Venice, and the music world. Thank you for sharing your many talents so generously."
"I can't tell you how thrilled I was to hear your brilliant performance at the ‘Music Outside the Box Series.' Your mastery of the flute was awesome! Your technique was flawless especially those octave reaches which were pure and beautiful. The slow movements as well as the dances and all time favorite Bizet's Carmen showed your complete artistry."
"...this may be the wrong terminology, but Karen your phrasing is so beautiful that it seems as though you are singing through the flute... Thank you both so much for marvellous music and a memorable evening."
"Just a note to tell you what a magnificent performance you two presented at the Symphony's Sunday Series. I was "sailing" through Monday chores, just remembering what you included in your program and how well it was presented."
"Your performance last Sunday was outstanding. I didn't know a flute was able to "shade" the tones the way you did. What a wonderful treat. As usual, Chris on the piano was excellent."
"Just want you to know how very much we enjoyed your performances on Sunday. What musical talent you both possess!! It was a marvelous, uplifting, almost surreal experience just to be a part of your audience."
"For many months (my friend) has been telling me how talented you are, but I sincerely had no idea. I cannot begin to tell you how much I enjoyed listening to you two and how absolutely humbled I am by your talent. I so appreciate the time and effort, the long hours of practice and the dedication you present. Thanks so much for sharing your gifts."
"Thank you, Thank you for the beautiful music, Sunday afternoon. It was a peaceful afternoon when I heard your flute and piano music. "
"I am still ‘high' from the wonderful music I just experienced. My exuberance displayed at your concert did not convey the joy and excitement you gave every person in the congregation. You are a marvelous team personally and musically and most of all spiritually. You reach deep in the heart of every one you touch. Your music is a bonus—a gift to all of us! I am blessed to be part of it all."
Upcoming Performances
Past Performances
Q & A for Flute Students
How often do I take lessons?
• Flute lessons are once a week, one-on-one, 30 minute sessions. About three or four times a year that last lesson of the month is a 60 minute group lesson. Email for current tuition rates.
What role does the parent take?
• A parent/care-giver should expect to attend the lesson with a student 5th grade or younger in order to "learn" along with the student to help at practice sessions at home.
How much of a time commitment is this?
• Plan on practicing at least three to four days a week for progress to be made. (The amount each day depends on the student's level.)
How old does a student need to be to start playing flute?
• A flute is heavier and longer than you might think! For that reason, traditionally it's recommended not to start until the age of nine or ten. However, with the new KinderFlute methodology and special curved head joints, students can start as young as four years of age!
Do students participate in recitals?
• Yes! Students have the opportunity to participate in two studio recitals every year. In addition, three to four times a year the last lesson of the month is a small group lesson. This creates a student-recital environment where students can perform for their peers.
Where do I get a flute?
• Local music stores have "rent to own" programs. That means students can first rent a new flute for a few months before deciding to buy and the monthly rental fees can be applied to the purchase price of the instrument. If a curved headjoint or an upgraded model of flute (beyond a standard, student model) is desired, actually contacting the company's website is the way to go. Most companies will ship a few flutes directly to a prospective client for a trial period before deciding/declining to purchase. Ms. Romig takes delight in helping students walk through the process to find just the right flute!
Mrs. Romig is currently accepting flute students. Email for more information and available times and days.
karen@romigmusic.com
A Joyous Christmas
Music From Around the World
Japan (Haru No Umi)
Hungary (Hungarian Fantasy)
Italy (Carnival of Venice)
Brazil (Aria from Bachianas Brasilieras No. 5)








Sample Concert Programs Presented by the Romigs
Musical selections from various countries, including Japan, Denmark, Brazil, Ireland, and Spain.
Musical selections from various countries, including China, Scotland, France, Finland, and Italy. This concert also features harp and bagpipes.
This program features all music written by French composers, including selections of French jazz music, complete with string bass and drums.
From Duke Ellington to Henry Mancini, from hymns to folk music, this concert celebrates America.
From the Age of the Celts to the Modern Age, this program explores diverse music from a variety of time periods.
Gaelic, Celtic, Irish, Scottish, and English delights, complete with bagpipes and bodran drums.
An inspirational program featuring beloved songs of faith.
Romantic music performed by two sweethearts.
Have yourself a merry little Christmas with our fun and festive holiday selections.