Galway Flute Festival: Reflections (Fluterscooter)

I did not know what to expect when Lady Jeanne Galway invited The Flute View to be a part of the festival in Weggis, but I knew what I was craving: and that was COMMUNITY. If there was one thing that I could take away from my experience, it would be the sense of community and support that I felt among everyone. Sir James and Lady Jeanne Galway continue to do an outstanding job in cultivating a supportive international flute community in an environment of beauty and love, and now I see why everyone keeps coming back year after year.  The masterclasses, the fabulous guest artists and performers, the breathtaking views of Lake Lucerne, and did I mention the food?! (I still need to get the recipe for that beet salad) were all first-rate. I had the opportunity to hear flute playing that I rarely, if ever, get to hear. I'm still thinking about Kersten McCall's magnificently refined performance of the Boulez Sonatine and the delicate softness of Juliette Hurel's high register in her Poulenc Sonata.

What I found interesting was that the masterclasses did not only include the students, but also some of the Guest Artists and past Rising Stars, even though they have their own successful professional careers. There is always something any flutist can learn from playing in front of Sir James Galway, and it is a good idea to check in with your flute playing by performing for a master. This also helped create a sense of the inclusive and non-competitive atmosphere I experienced among all the festival's participants.

I would recommend for everyone to experience the Galway Flute Festival at least once in their flute playing life, whether a student, professional, or amateur. There is really something new to be learned for everyone. Thank you, Sir James and Lady Jeanne, for all that you do.  Until next year, Weggis...

--Fluterscooter

ps. Thank you for everyone who came to the booth to buy a Fluterscooter Bag!  The Galway Gold bags are still available on www.fluterscooter.com.