Flute Inspirations 

Exploring Sound, Expression and Musical Freedom

Directed by Claire Wickes

About the course

Enjoy a week of flute playing with Claire Wickes, exploring the expressive possibilities of the instrument in a welcoming and supportive setting. Through a combination of individual guidance, shared music-making and practical discussion, participants will have the opportunity to develop their sound, technique and musical imagination. Whether you would like to bring fresh life to a favourite piece, work through a technical challenge or discover new approaches to phrasing and interpretation, this course offers space to experiment, learn from others and grow in confidence as a musician.

Who is it for?

This Open Level course welcomes flautists with a range of playing experience, from developing amateur musicians to confident, experienced players. You should be able to read music and prepare a short piece or passage to work on, but there is no requirement to perform solo repertoire in front of the group. The emphasis is on curiosity, enjoyment and making progress at your own level.

What to expect

Sessions will combine practical work on breathing, tone, articulation, technique and musical expression with opportunities for individual coaching and group discussion. Participants are encouraged to bring pieces or passages they would particularly like to explore, whether solo repertoire, orchestral excerpts or music they are preparing for a performance. Listening to one another and sharing ideas will be an important part of the week, and there may be opportunities for informal ensemble playing where appropriate. The precise balance of activities will respond to the interests and experience of the group.

Practical information