Leading UK membership organisation for flute players, the British Flute Society, will present its second London flute festival, Future Flute Fest, at St John’s Smith Square from 17-19 August 2018.
The Society explains the context of the festival:
‘The world in the 21st century is a complex place and is changing at an ever-increasing pace. No one is immune from this, least of all musicians. The challenge will always be to respect and celebrate the past whilst at the same time finding new ways to engage with the present and the future. The internet has changed everything and it is highly likely that today’s young people will have ‘portfolio’ careers throughout their lives.’
Future Flute Fest highlights
Future Flute Fest features performances reflecting many different genres and styles of flute-playing, showcasing world-renowned players who enjoy varied professional careers.
These include evening Gala Concerts from Sophie Cherrier (Ensemble intercontemporain), Stefan Höskuldsson (principal flautist with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra) and a concert of baroque music from Katy Bircher. The programme includes the diverse talents of Tilmann Dehnhard, Wissam Boustany, Ian Clarke, Peter Verhoyen, Stephen Preston, Philippe Barnes, Gareth Lockrane, Amy Yule, Mark Sparks, Carla Rees, Matthias Ziegler, Anne La Berge, Karin de Fleyt, Shanna Gutierrez and Marion Garver.
Other highlights are:
- interactive ‘Pit Stops’ and ‘Body Shops’ which focus on the physical and mental mechanics of being a flute player
- a session during which Stephen Preston will introduce participants to baroque dance steps
- an opportunity for all to perform in a flute choir led by Mel Orriss
- a trade exhibition
To book tickets, please visit the St John’s Smith Square box office here.
To join the British Flute Society, click here.
Header photo: Stefán Ragnar Höskuldsson (principal flautist of the Chicago Symphony Orchesta) © Tod Rosenberg
