DENTON (UNT), Texas - The University of North Texas College of Music announced that Martin Godoy, a doctor of musical arts student, won first prize in the Texas Flute Society’s 32nd annual Myrna Brown Artist Competition. The event, held each year in Denton, is widely recognized as one of the highest level international flute competitions and has no age limit. Godoy receives a cash prize and is invited to appear as a guest artist at the 2019 Texas Flute Festival.

Godoy’s success is sweeter because of his personal journey. Godoy is a Dallas native and a first generation college student.

“For me, going to college meant making a name for my family and to show that anything is possible,” said Godoy. “‘I’m so proud of you, Mijo,’ and ‘that’s my boy,’ are expressions I often hear from my proud parents. I like to think that I take a bit of each of them with me as I achieve my dreams in music.”

Godoy explains that he had incredible encouragement from teachers, counselors and family. In elementary school, music was his favorite class. His music teacher recommended that he audition for the All-City Boys Choir and he was accepted. In middle school, he joined the band and fell in love with the flute. From there, he excelled through all-city, region, region orchestra and state bands.

 “Thank goodness for high school counselors.” Godoy said. “I honestly do not know where I would be right now had it not been for college. I have met so many people and have developed a wide variety of interests. My world is bigger and dreams bigger as a result.”

Godoy’s talent and drive landed him at the UNT College of Music where he found inspiration, friendship, guidance and a hunger for success.

“Winning a top tier competition like the Myrna Brown Flute Competition is a stellar achievement for any flute student, to win it as a first generation college student is all the more remarkable, as often students like Martin have not had flute lessons until they enter college,” said Terri Sundberg, professor of flute at the UNT College of Music. “He is incredibly gifted and has worked to support himself and pay tuition and expenses to earn three degrees by teaching flute and directing the Color Guard at Colleyville High School. He has blossomed into one of the top flutists in the country and is an example of what is possible with talent, drive and determination.”