We've all heard of the big shots like Sir James Galway, Emmanuel Pahud, and Denis Bouriakov, right? But hold on to your flutes, folks, because today we're shining the spotlight on the amazing women of the flute world! These fabulous female flautists, educators, influencers, and entrepreneurs dazzle us with their exceptional talents, inspire the next generation of flute players, and continue to innovate and transform the music industry in a groundbreaking way. 🎶🎉
Close to Home
There exists a vibrant community of flute players in Ireland, largely attributed to the remarkable contributions of two influential women from Dublin! Their trailblazing efforts have served as a source of inspiration for numerous individuals within this musical sphere.
Doris Keogh (16 April 1922 – 10 August 2012)
Doris Keogh was an Irish flautist and flute teacher. From 1944, she played with the Radio Éireann Orchestra, the Radio Éireann Symphony Orchestra, and the Radio Éireann Light Orchestra. At the time, she expressed concern over the gender pay gap, and advocated for equal pay for women compared to men.
She held a position teaching flute at the Royal Irish Academy of Music, from 1969 to 1993. She played a pivotal role as a founding member of the Dublin Orchestral Players and established the Capriol Consort in 1970. This ensemble specialised in performances of music, dance, and song spanning from the twelfth to seventeenth centuries, presented in authentic period attire. By 1988, her exceptional contributions to flute instruction were recognised with a millennium award, solidifying her reputation as one of the most influential flute educators in the industry.
In 1991, a group of students paid tribute to her by establishing the Doris Keogh Trust Fund during a concert at the National Concert Hall. This fund, overseen by the Arts Council, is awarded biennially to a deserving Irish flute or recorder player.
Evelyn Grant Kelly
Who would have thought that a Dubliner could swoop in and steal the title of 'Cork Person of the Month' from under our noses? Well, in 2022, Evelyn did just that, proving that she's got the charm to win over even the most Cork-centric hearts in the city! Originally from Donnycarney, Co Dublin, Evelyn is from a well-known musical family, with her brother, Gearoid Grant, being conductor of the Youth Orchestra of Ireland for over 42 years.
She has been at the helm of many large scale music projects in Cork, from producing the 1985 celebrations for Cork 800, running the annual UCC Strauss Ball, the Tall Ships Festival, the annual Doc Noonan Ball, to campaigning for the ‘new’ School of Music in Union Quay, and the annual schools concert series. In 2009, she retired from her post as flute teacher in the Cork School of Music, a position she held for almost 30 years. During that time, she inspired many flute players to pursue careers as professional flautists and music educators, myself included!
She is co-founder and musical director of The Cork Pops Orchestra, presenter of Weekend Drive on Lyric fm, producer of several radio documentaries for RTÉ, and is a passionate arts advocate. Evelyn was awarded a PhD from University College Cork for her research into social inclusion in music education in Ireland. She is married to cellist Gerry Kelly and together they have four children, who are all professional musicians. A true powerhouse!
Farther Afield
Doriot Anthony Dwyer
Nationality: American.
She was one of the first women to hold a principal chair in a major American orchestra (Boston Symphony Orchestra), she served in this position until her retirement in 1990! It was a pioneering achievement. Dwyer broke barriers and inspired generations of female flautists.
Dwyer was a dedicated teacher and mentor to many young flautists. She taught at institutions such as Boston University and the New England Conservatory, sharing her extensive knowledge and experience with students, and her legacy continues through her students and the broader flute community.
Doriot Anthony Dwyer is remembered as a pioneering role model who broke gender barriers in classical music. Her excellence and determination demonstrated that women could succeed at the highest levels in the field. She remains an inspirational figure for aspiring musicians, particularly female flautists, who see in her career a testament to the possibilities available to them. She was awarded the National Flute Association's Lifetime Achievement Award in 1993. She has been awarded honorary Doctor of Music degrees from Harvard University and Simmons and Regis Colleges; the Sanford fellowship at Yale University; and citations from her alma mater, the Eastman School of Music. She was elected to the Women’s Hall of Fame at Seneca Falls, NY.
Nationality: American.
Former principal flautist of the New York Philharmonic, Baxtresser is celebrated for her beautiful tone and artistry, as well as her contributions as a teacher and author. She served as the principal flautist of the New York Philharmonic from 1980 to 1998. During her tenure, she was praised for her exquisite tone, technical brilliance, and musical expressiveness. Before joining the New York Philharmonic, she held principal positions with the Montreal Symphony Orchestra and the Toronto Symphony Orchestra.
Baxtresser has been a distinguished faculty member at several prestigious institutions, including; The Juilliard School, Manhattan School of Music, Carnegie Mellon University, and New England Conservatory. Her teaching has shaped many successful flautists who now hold prominent positions in orchestras and academic institutions worldwide.
She has authored several influential pedagogical works, including:
"Orchestral Excerpts for Flute": A comprehensive collection of flute excerpts from major orchestral works, accompanied by performance notes and insights.
"Great Flute Duos from the Orchestral Repertoire": Co-authored with Robin McKee, this book includes duet arrangements of significant orchestral flute parts.
She has received multiple awards from the National Flute Association, including the Lifetime Achievement Award, recognising her exceptional contributions to the flute community. She has been honoured with several honorary doctorates for her contributions to music and education.
Jeanne Baxtresser's illustrious career as a principal flautist and educator has had a profound impact on the flute world. Her performances with the New York Philharmonic set a high standard for orchestral flute playing, while her teaching and publications have influenced countless flautists globally. Baxtresser continues to be a revered figure in the classical music community, celebrated for her artistry, pedagogy, and dedication to the flute.
Nationality: American
A pioneering female flautist, Robison has been a prominent soloist and chamber musician, co-founding the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center. Robison is renowned for her work as a soloist and chamber musician. She has performed with leading orchestras worldwide and has been a prominent figure in chamber music, co-founding the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center.
She has been a dedicated teacher, sharing her expertise with students at the New England Conservatory, where she holds the Donna Hieken Flute Chair. Her teaching has inspired many young flautists to pursue successful careers in music. She has participated in numerous music festivals, including the Marlboro Music Festival and the Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival. Her collaborations with other prominent musicians have enriched her career and expanded her influence in the classical music community.
Robison is known for her innovative and holistic approach to teaching, incorporating elements of physical and mental wellness into her pedagogy. Her methods emphasise the importance of a balanced and healthy lifestyle for musicians. She regularly conducts masterclasses and workshops worldwide, sharing her knowledge and techniques with flautists of all levels. These sessions are highly regarded for their depth and insight. Robison has made numerous recordings that serve as educational tools for flautists. Her interpretations of classical and contemporary works are studied and admired by students and professionals alike.
She has received numerous accolades, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Flute Association, recognising her outstanding contributions to the field of flute music. Robison has been awarded honorary doctorates for her contributions to music and education.
Paula Robison's remarkable career as a performer and educator has had a lasting impact on the flute community. Her artistry and dedication to teaching have influenced generations of flautists. Robison's innovative approaches to flute pedagogy, combined with her extensive performance career, make her a revered figure in the world of classical music. Her legacy continues to inspire and guide flautists around the globe.
Nationality: American
An internationally acclaimed soloist and chamber musician, Lady Jeanne Galway frequently performs with her husband, Sir James Galway. She is known for her beautiful tone, technical prowess, and contributions to flute pedagogy. Lady Jeanne Galway has enjoyed a prolific career as a soloist and chamber musician.
As a dedicated educator, Lady Jeanne Galway conducts masterclasses and workshops worldwide. Her teaching emphasises the development of technical skills, musical interpretation, and performance confidence. She is actively involved in educational outreach, working to inspire and mentor young flautists. Her efforts include participation in flute festivals, summer schools, and other educational initiatives. While Lady Jeanne Galway is primarily known for her performances and teaching, she has also contributed to flute pedagogy through articles and interviews, sharing her insights and experiences with the flute community.
Lady Jeanne Galway has received numerous accolades for her contributions to music and education. These honours reflect her dedication to the flute and her impact on the classical music world.
As a prominent female flautist, Lady Jeanne Galway serves as an inspiration to many young musicians, demonstrating the possibilities available to them in the field of classical music.
Lady Jeanne Galway's career is marked by her exceptional talent, dedication to education, and influential role in the flute community. Her performances, recordings, and teaching have left a lasting impact on the world of classical music. By working closely with her husband, Sir James Galway, she has helped to popularise the flute and inspire a new generation of flautists. Her contributions to flute pedagogy and her commitment to musical excellence continue to resonate with audiences and students alike.
Nationality: Scottish
Principal flutist of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, McGhee is known for her lyrical playing and has an extensive career as a soloist and chamber musician. McGhee has served as the principal flautist of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra since 2012. Her playing has been praised for its lyrical beauty, technical precision, and expressive depth.
Before joining the Pittsburgh Symphony, McGhee was co-principal flute of the BBC Symphony Orchestra and has performed with many other leading orchestras. She is also an accomplished soloist, performing concertos with orchestras and giving recitals around the world. McGhee is an avid chamber musician, regularly performing at festivals and with chamber ensembles. Her collaborations include performances with top musicians and ensembles, showcasing her versatility and interpretative skills.
McGhee is a dedicated educator, currently serving as Artist Lecturer in Flute at Carnegie Mellon University. Her teaching is known for its focus on musicality, technique, and the development of each student's unique voice. She frequently gives masterclasses and workshops internationally, sharing her expertise with flautists of all levels. Her teaching style is supportive and inspiring, encouraging students to achieve their full potential. McGhee has recorded extensively, both as a soloist and with chamber groups. She also contributes to flute pedagogy through articles and educational resources. She is widely admired for her musicality and technical prowess, serving as an inspiration to both aspiring and professional flautists.
Lorna McGhee's career is characterised by her outstanding performance abilities, dedication to education, and significant contributions to the flute community. Her work as principal flautist with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and her role as an educator at Carnegie Mellon University highlight her influence in the field. McGhee's commitment to both performing and teaching has made her a respected and beloved figure in the classical music world. Her artistry and passion for music continue to inspire and nurture the next generation of flautists.
Nationality: American
An influential performer and educator, Porter has won numerous competitions and is a professor at the University of Michigan, known for her inspiring teaching and performances. Porter has enjoyed a prolific career as a soloist and chamber musician. She has performed with major orchestras, including the Boston Symphony Orchestra, the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. Her performances are celebrated for their technical precision, expressive depth, and engaging musicality.
Amy Porter is a dedicated educator and serves as Professor of Flute at the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance. Her teaching philosophy emphasises the development of both technical skills and musical expression, encouraging students to find their unique artistic voices. Porter is in high demand as a clinician and regularly conducts masterclasses and workshops worldwide. Her engaging and insightful teaching style has made her a favourite among students and professionals alike.
Porter has won numerous competitions and received various awards throughout her career, reflecting her exceptional talent and contributions to the flute community. She has been actively involved with the National Flute Association (NFA) and has received multiple honours from the organisation, including the prestigious NFA Lifetime Achievement Award. Porter's students have gone on to win major competitions, secure positions in top orchestras, and become successful teachers themselves, spreading her influence throughout the flute community.
Amy Porter's career is marked by her exceptional artistry, dedication to education, and significant contributions to the flute world. Her performances, recordings, and teaching have left a lasting impact on the classical music community. As a professor at the University of Michigan, she continues to inspire and mentor the next generation of flautists. Porter's commitment to advancing flute pedagogy and her influence as a performer and educator make her a highly respected and beloved figure in the world of classical music.
Nationality: Korean
Known for her expressive and virtuosic playing, Jasmine Choi has a distinguished career as a soloist and has held prestigious positions with major orchestras. She was principal flautist with the Vienna Symphony Orchestra, where she was the first Korean-born musician to join the ensemble. She has also served as associate principal flautist with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. Choi is renowned for her solo performances and chamber music collaborations. She has performed as a soloist with leading orchestras worldwide and has been featured in major music festivals and concert halls. Choi has an extensive discography, with recordings that showcase her versatility and technical prowess.
Choi regularly conducts masterclasses and workshops around the world, sharing her expertise and inspiring the next generation of flautists. Her teaching emphasises technical excellence, musical expression, and the importance of a personal connection to the music. She is deeply committed to music education and outreach, often engaging with young musicians through educational programs and initiatives. Choi's approachable and encouraging teaching style makes her a beloved mentor.
Choi maintains a strong online presence, using social media and digital platforms to reach a global audience. She shares performance videos, practice tips, and educational content, making flute learning accessible to a wider community.
Choi has won numerous awards and honours throughout her career, including top prizes in international competitions. Her accolades reflect her exceptional skill and contribution to the field of flute music.
She is widely regarded as one of the leading flautists of her generation, with a reputation for pushing the boundaries of flute performance, and inspiring young musicians to pursue their passions.
Jasmine Choi's career as a flautist is marked by her extraordinary talent, innovative approach to performance, and dedication to education. Her impact on the flute community is profound, as she continues to inspire and mentor young flautists through her performances, recordings, and teaching.
Katie Flute (Katie Althen-Velázquez)
Katie Althen-Velázquez, a graduate of The Juilliard School, has carved a niche for herself on YouTube, where she shares her passion for the flute with a global audience. Her YouTube career has been marked by a mix of engaging content that includes performance videos, educational tutorials, and insightful commentary on all things flute-related.
Key Aspects of Her YouTube Career
Katie showcases a wide range of musical genres, from classical pieces to contemporary works, demonstrating her versatility and mastery of the flute. She provides in-depth tutorials and lessons on various aspects of flute playing, catering to flutists of all levels. Her videos cover topics such as technique, tone production, and repertoire interpretation. She shares practical advice on effective practice strategies, helping viewers improve their skills and develop a more disciplined practice routine.
Behind-the-Scenes and Vlogs:
Personal Insights: Katie gives her audience a glimpse into her life as a professional flautist, based in New York City, through behind-the-scenes content and vlogs. These videos often include her experiences with performances, practice sessions, and her journey as a musician.
Community Engagement:
Q&A Sessions: Katie frequently engages with her audience through Q&A sessions, addressing their questions and providing personalised advice.
Interactive Content: She creates interactive content that encourages viewer participation, such as play-along videos and challenge series, fostering a strong sense of community among her subscribers.
Katie Althen-Velázquez's YouTube channel, which to date has over 140k subscribers, has become a valuable resource for flautists around the world. Her approachable and informative style has made her a beloved figure in the online flute community, and her content continues to inspire and educate flautists of all ages and skill levels. By leveraging the power of YouTube, Katie has expanded her influence beyond the concert hall, making high-quality flute education and performances accessible to a global audience.
This article aims to showcase the significant impact of prominent women in the realm of flute music, as they persist in breaking barriers through their exceptional musical skills and educational contributions. Every woman's unique input has been crucial in shaping the flute community, inspiring and guiding aspiring musicians worldwide.
It is possible that this could evolve into a series, considering that we have merely scratched the surface of women in the world of flute music. Please feel free to share your suggestions in the comments section for potential future articles!
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Susan x
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