Culver City Flute Choir

The Barber of Seville

2011-12-08T10:25:00.000-08:00

Just saw this and it's really fun. Enjoy!!

Resonance Flute Consort

2011-10-26T16:00:00.000-07:00

Former Culver City Flute Choir member Karen Smith has a group called "Resonance Flute Consort," and I'm very proud to share their new-ish website with you!

Karen is a very talented flutist, and this group will soon have CD available.

Enjoy.

Variety is the spice of life

2011-09-16T21:28:00.000-07:00

I did not read the letter that this letter refers to.
I do not know what a "flute band" is, as defined by someone living (and playing!) in the UK.

I have no idea what kind of specific behavior rankled people so much that they "ridicule and complain" about the so-called "flute bands," however, I will say that it kind of sounds like fun.

Enjoy: http://www.newsletter.co.uk/community/letters/flute_bands_liven_up_parades_1_3061269

Fall 2011 Begins Soon!

2011-08-16T12:33:00.000-07:00

Fall session begins Thursday, September 15th, so PLEASE contact the adult school and register, if you haven't already. You can register by phone, online or in person. Please remember to register BEFORE the start of the quarter. Thank you!

Register online!
Flute choir is 10 Thursdays, September 18 - December 8, and the cost is $115. Still a bargain at only $11.50 per class!

Adult School Information:

CULVER CITY ADULT SCHOOL OFFICE
4909 Overland Ave.
Culver City, CA 90230
Tel: 310.842.4300 Fax: 310.842.4343

FALL 2010 CALENDAR
Sept. 7th - Dec. 11th

SCHOOL CLOSED
Veteran's Day: Thursday, Nov. 11th
Thanksgiving Week: Nov. 22nd thru Nov. 27th

NEW OFFICE HOURS
Monday - Thursday: 8:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. & 6-7 p.m.
Friday: 8:30 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.

St. Patrick's Day Greeting From Space

2011-03-18T17:44:00.000-07:00

Thought this was the perfect place to share this. Enjoy!

LA Phil on tour - blog!

2011-01-23T15:17:00.001-08:00

The Los Angeles Philharmonic members are keeping a blog while they're on their European tour... you can read it by clicking on the title of today's post.

Enjoy!

LA Phil's Gustavo Dudamel on Jay Leno

2011-01-05T12:04:00.000-08:00

LA Phil's Gustavo Dudamel

If you missed Dudamel on Jay Leno last night, here's a clip!

Part 1
Part 2

LA Phil Live - this Sunday, January 9, 2011

2011-01-04T13:43:00.000-08:00

The LA Phil Live event (where you can see the Los Angeles Philharmonic conducted by Gustavo Dudamel at your local movie theater) is this Sunday, January 9, 2011.

Tickets are $20 each and can be purchased online ahead of time. Click on the title of this post and you will be taken to the website with more information. Note: there are more events like this coming up after this one, too!

A 'Messiah' performance of, by and for musicians - latimes.com

2010-12-30T07:46:00.000-08:00

I would love an invitation to this home!

A 'Messiah' performance of, by and for musicians - latimes.com

Carol Wincenc: Master Class and Performance: February 2011

2010-12-29T21:13:00.000-08:00

The Bob Cole Conservatory of Music at California State University, Long Beach presents Carol Wincenc - master classes and performance February 11-13, 2011.

Here's the schedule and more information:

California State University, Long Beach
Bob Cole Conservatory of Music
1250 Bellflower Blvd.
Long Beach, CA 90840

Master classes:
Friday, February 11, 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, February 12, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. / 1:30 p.m. - 4:15 p.m.
University Music Center A-301

Artist performance:
Sunday, February 13, 8:00 p.m.
Daniel Recital Hall A-100
Tickets are $10/$7

Arts ticket office: (562) 985-7000
www.csulb.edu/coleconservatory

Performers:
Carol Wincenc, flute
Wendy Caldwell, piano
John Barcellona, flute

If you're interested in performing at one of the master classes, send your resume to:
Dr. John Barcellona
Bob Cole Conservatory of Music
1250 Bellflower Blvd.
Long Beach, CA 90840

The cost to perform is $100, however, do not send a check until you've been confirmed to perform.

To audit the master classes, send $25 to the above address in advance, or you can pay at the door. Make checks payable to CSULB Woodwind Chamber Music.

For further information contact John Barcellona at (562) 985-4739.

Great Steve Lopez story in the LA Times

2010-12-29T10:33:00.000-08:00

In case you missed it, Steve Lopez wrote a short but sweet story about Gary Chen and the music shop in Hollywood, Stein on Vine.

Click on the title of today's post to read.

I've only been there once, but it was a cool little visit to a cool place.

Winter Session for Flute Choir

2010-12-16T08:19:00.000-08:00

Hi, everyone,
The winter session for flute choir begins on Thursday, January 13!

PLEASE REGISTER AS SOON AS POSSIBLE: as you know, we need to meet a certain level of registered students BEFORE THE FIRST CLASS, otherwise we will be threatened with cancellation, which is a big hassle.

10 Thursdays, 7 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
$115 (yes, the price has gone up, but still a bargain: $11.50 a week for 2.5 hours of playing and instruction)
January 13-March 24
No class March 3
We meet at Culver City Middle School, Room 1

You may register:

In person: 4909 Overland Avenue, Culver City, CA 90230
By telephone: (310) 842-4300
Online: www.ccusd.org/adultschool

The adult school hours are:

Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.; 6 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Friday: 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Please call before making a trip down there as their winter break is probably coming up soon. Even if you can't register in person, you can do it online, anytime!

Happy holidays, and looking forward to seeing and hearing you in 2011!

- Irene

Holiday Concert 2010!

2010-11-24T09:19:00.001-08:00

Hello, friends,

We hope you can join us in celebrating the holidays this year!

When: Thursday, December 9, 2010, at 8:00 p.m.
Refreshments served after the concert.

Where: Farragut Elementary School
(Cafeteria/Auditorium)
10820 Farragut Drive
Culver City, CA 90230

We look forward to seeing you!

A day in the life of Gustavo Dudamel

2010-11-17T17:22:00.001-08:00

(Information from Facebook)

Euronews profiles a day in the life of Gustavo Dudamel, from a morning with the Youth Orchestra of LA to conducting the LA Phil at Walt Disney concert hall at night.

http://www.euronews.net/2010/11/04/gustavo-dudamel-the-little-big-man/

LA Phil Live!

2010-11-09T17:14:00.000-08:00

The Los Angeles Philharmonic will be presenting three live theater events in 2011! You can buy a ticket at a movie theater near you and experience the orchestra from the comfort of your own zip code.

For more details (dates, program notes, etc), visit http://www.laphil.com/laphillive/. My only issue so far with this is that I didn't see anywhere how much the tickets will cost. This seems like information that would be important to have.

One of Patty's piano students mentioned to me awhile back that the LA Opera also does this too, and you can get more information about their programs, here.

There's also a story today in the New York Times about how orchestras and opera companies are doing this (and you thought you could only watch UFC fights at the movie theater!) and the possible effects it will have on performances. It's pretty interesting so check it out, here.

Los Angeles Philharmonic - Gala Concert

2010-10-08T08:08:00.000-07:00

Did you miss last night's gala concert at Walt Disney Hall last night?

I caught some of it on the radio, but here's the whole concert, thanks to NPR.

Enjoy!

Flute God: David Buck

2010-10-04T10:39:00.000-07:00

In the last week or so I've had two opportunities to hear David Buck, the new principal flutist for the Los Angeles Philharmonic play (I attended a free concert in Cerritos last Wednesday, and another free concert at Walt Disney Hall - oriented toward children but I enjoyed it too, on Saturday). The LA Phil website doesn't have a link to Mr. Buck's bio yet, but here's something I found on an Oregon newspaper from 2006 when he was appointed as principal flutist of the Oregon Symphony.

THE FLUTE GOD: Although principal flutist David Buck is only 24 years old, he has indeed been described as a "flute god" by those who heard him during the auditions. Buck has only to give his final recital to graduate from Juilliard, and he figures he'll do that next spring. "I've played in orchestras for Carlos twice," remarks Buck, "once when he came to Juilliard and another time with the New World Symphony. I like his energy and the excitement he brings to music. It was a lot of fun." And speaking of fun, Buck says: "I'm in a film coming out this fall with Robert De Niro called The Good Shepherd. You can find me playing flute dressed in drag alongside Matt Damon."

Also, here's his bio from the Oregon Symphony's website:

David Buck was appointed principal flute of the Oregon Symphony in 2005 by music director Carlos Kalmar. The Oregonian has praised him for his “supple tone, rhythmic dynamism, and technical agility.” David is a recent graduate of The Juilliard School, where he earned a Bachelor of Music and a Graduate Diploma. He took a hiatus from his studies at Juilliard after his sophomore year to serve as Associate Principal flutist with the Honolulu Symphony. He has also had the opportunity to appear as a guest principal with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra.

An avid chamber musician, David has been a member of the New Juilliard Ensemble, the Axiom Ensemble, and the Julliard Woodwind Quintet. He has participated in several summer festivals, including Tanglewood Music Center, Spoleto Festival del Due Monde, Kent/Blossom Music Festival, and the Pacific Music Festival. A native of Philadelphia, David’s primary teachers have been New York Philharmonic principal flutist Robert Langevin, and Jeffrey Khaner and David Cramer of the Philadelphia Orchestra.

In his spare time David enjoys reading and drinking coffee.

And here's an article with a little bit of him talking about auditioning for Gustavo Dudamel.

Mr. Buck studied with Robert Langevin (principal flutist for the New York Philharmonic), who I also had the opportunity to hear recently. Another amazing player. I'm feeling inspired. I need some more flute playing!

Los Angeles Philharmonic - Free Neighborhood Concert

2010-09-30T08:40:00.000-07:00

Last night, Patrick and I went to a free concert by the Los Angeles Philharmonic at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts. I'm not sure how well-advertised these concerts are - I found out about this one from KPCC, which we listen to in the mornings, yesterday. Not even one day's notice seems either like they know that once word gets out they'll be guaranteed to have an audience (the LA Phil for FREE is an awesome draw, no?), or... they have crappy planning skills over there at the LA Philharmonic Association.

I'm going to assume it's not that one, though, because this concert was extremely well-attended, and rightfully so. We had a really nice time.

So the way this concert worked, by the time I heard about it, was that you could go to the Cerritos Center's box office starting at 6 p.m. last night to get "stand-by" tickets. I left work a half hour early because the 5 freeway south from East LA more times than not is a parking lot at 5:30 (my usual time to leave). I got off the 91 freeway at around 5:55, and following my Google Map instructions, went... in a giant circle. The shopping area where the performing arts center is never fails to confuse the heck out of me: it's a maze, and I almost always get lost. From the direction I came, too, I missed out on the big white signs that say "Box Office" (Patrick didn't, and thus had an easier time). Eventually I found it, though, and there were about 5 people already in what I thought was the stand-by line.

I went to the box office, however, and found out that there were still tickets available. I got my tickets, got in line, and waited for Patrick. He made it there from Downey much faster than I did from East LA (he's a speed demon) and eventually they let us in. (I'm not sure about the stand-by line, which did eventually make an appearance. I don't know if they got in or not.)

The rush for seats wasn't as bad as I thought it might be (we all had General Admission tickets), and while it might've been cool to have taken one of the boxes (the place has a million boxes!) instead we headed down to about the 8th or 9th row, just right of center. I didn't realize that the flute section would be pretty much right in front of me (the stage seemed awfully cramped; no way of knowing how the musicians felt about it, but I liked it - the orchestra looked like a giant black and white single entity at times; they put on a very spirited concert with lots of movement), so the conductor was blocking them most of the time, but that conductor (Manuel Lopez, a student, or former student?, of Gustavo Dudamel), was really fun to watch, so I didn't feel like I was missing out on anything.

So. 26-year old Manuel Lopez! I don't really know anything educated about conductors, so my comments (all my comments, not just about him) are just my own silly opinion. But that guy was thrilling to watch, and I bet, to play for. He seemed to me to be tall - at least, he has long, thin legs (and wore a beautifully tailored suit, very fashionable) and a huge head of hair - he looked great. His crisp white French cuffs were flying all over the place, his hands were big and lovely, and his body language was perfectly understandable and exciting. He didn't overdo it either, but he seemed very involved in the music.

Ah! The music! They performed four pieces: Huapango, by Jose Pablo Moncayo; Overture to La gazza ladra (The Thieving Magpie) and Overture to Semiranide, by Gioachino Rossini; and Symphony No. 7 in A major, by Beethoven.

I'd never heard Huapango, and according to the program notes (I think it would be a copyright violation to include them here but you can visit the LA Phil's website and I think they're there), the piece incorporates three traditional songs from Veracruz. It was very cool, and had lots of percussion and horns. We really enjoyed it.

The two Rossini pieces were equally exciting. I don't know what it is, exactly, about Rossini that I like. Maybe it's that the music is sometimes sort of cornball - so dramatic and visual; I always get a picture in my head. Maybe it's that it reminds me of Bugs Bunny and like everyone I'm just a ten year old at heart. Maybe it seems like Rossini had a sense of humor. I love the double-time fast parts and huge crescendos and the way everything fits together like a big moving piece of machinery. I don't know. But I really liked both pieces. The first one starts with these snare drum rolls, and what drummer and wife of a drummer wouldn't love that?

Watching the orchestra in that setting was really special, too. I've been to Disney Hall and the Hollywood Bowl and the Pantages and Dorothy Chandler, and I've had some great seats (and bad seats), but I've never felt like I could see the orchestra quite so well as at the Cerritos Center. They were right there, and seriously, last night they were rocking out. They really looked like they were having fun, and it was fun for me to catch some of their actions close up (I like the way the concertmaster almost stands up out of his seat sometimes while he's playing, or the way the bearded gentleman sitting behind him in the violin section taps both feet occasionally, or the way the guy sitting behind him would look at his stand partner every once in awhile). The cellos were pretty much squeezed into the first row, and I had serious fears that they were going to hit one another with their bows, but seeing all of them so close like that, with the varying colors of their instruments (all the different shades of honey) was great. And of course hearing them - there were some amazing little solos here and there - Sarah Jackson's piccolo is so beautiful and mellow. The horns were dead on and gorgeous. The percussion section was impressive.

I also like how they would light the concertmaster every time he stood up to tune the orchestra. That little detail reminded me of some of our light cues at City Garage, and I thought it was perfect.

Maybe it's because the floor seats at the Cerritos Center are on a slight incline, so I could see over the heads of the people in front of me, or maybe because we were very close, or it's a small place, or I don't know. I'm not sure how old the Cerritos Center is, but the decor is looking a little aged (Patrick compared it to a Hampton Inn), and I don't know anything about the acoustic properties, but with the lights out and the concert in progress, it was a very nice place to hear a big orchestra like that.

But then came the Beethoven, and it was the only thing I did not enjoy.

Most likely my lack of appreciation for Beethoven is a personal failing of my own and not Beethoven's, or maybe it was just this piece (the Allegretto was great, but everything else? B is for Boring) but I suddenly found myself getting very tired. The music just didn't capture me. I stopped paying attention, and started getting annoyed at little things unrelated to the performance (someone's hearing aid was beeping: I'm sure it had happened before but it didn't bother me until the third movement of the Beethoven; someone near us was tapping their foot so vigorously that the entire row could feel it). But this could just be me (though Patrick felt the concert lost something at the end too), because the crowd around us as we left were all raving and one lady in particular was in LOVE with the Beethoven, so what do I know?

Anyway, it was a fun night, fun to get out on a Wednesday and hear some amazing musicians - FOR FREE. If I hear about any more free concerts I will let you know.

On Saturday I'm taking my friend Sarah to Walt Disney Hall for another free concert, but this one (I just found out) isn't exactly a concert - I think there will be some discussion, too. Hopefully more playing. And Mr. Lopez will be conducting again, and I'm looking forward to that. Anyway, I have no idea if tickets are still available; at this point, if you're interested, you should contact them directly.

On Sunday there's another free concert at MacArthur park but the LA Phil website doesn't indicate how to get these tickets. I'd call if I were you, it's what I did yesterday to find out about the concert at the Cerritos Center. I spoke to Jackie, and she was extremely helpful, but I'm sure whoever you get will be helpful too.

General Information: (323) 850-2000

Upcoming flute stuff

2010-09-29T15:37:00.000-07:00

Sir James Galway at Colburn on October 11th

The legendary "man with the golden flute" Sir James Galway will be hosting a day of master classes, coachings, Q&A sessions, and more in Colburn's Zipper Hall on Monday, October 11th. His wife, Lady Jeanne Galway, will also be hosting masterclasses for younger students (age 10-16). Please visit the Colburn School's website to learn more (including fees and registration information) about this amazing opportunity.

...

The Los Angeles Philharmonic has been having free concerts and events that don't appear to be all that well advertised ahead of time. This morning on KPCC I learned of a free concert tonight (yes, tonight) at the Cerritos Performing Arts Center, and sometime last month I received an email at work about a free concert this Saturday. I've already got my tickets for Saturday, and will be attempting to get in line at 6 p.m. tonight for stand-by tickets for tonight - it means leaving work early and fighting traffic, but they're playing Rossini, and I love Rossini! It's going to be cool to see the LA Phil for free, and though the Saturday concert is advertised as a concert for kids, I still think it's going to be a good time. And I'm taking my friend Sarah, who hasn't yet been to Disney Hall!

KPCC also mentioned a free concert at MacArthur Park but I haven't seen any information about that one, yet. If you have, let me know!

Carnival of Venice for 24 Crossed Arms

2010-09-25T13:33:00.001-07:00

This is crazy!

Convention interviews: now with links

2010-09-25T13:33:00.000-07:00

I have to apologize for getting these interviews posted so late. The flute convention was last month, and I asked people from flute choir who attended to answer a few questions. I didn't think it would take me so long to get them posted.

I've added some links where I could find video or information from the people mentioned in the interviews. Enjoy!

Post-convention interview: Michael

2010-09-25T13:10:00.000-07:00

Was this your first time attending the flute convention? If no, what keeps you interested in returning? If yes, will you go again? This was not my first time attending the flute convention. Flute conventions I have attended (and their attractions):

Kansas City 1994
Orlando 1995 (Disney World!)
Phoenix 1998 (inaugural season of the Arizona Diamondbacks, at BankOne Ballpark aka the BOB
Atlanta 1999 (Coca-Cola museum)
Dallas 2001
Washington DC 2002 (after 9/11/2001, Library of Congress, Smithsonian museums, Arlington Cemetery, Kennedy Center, numerous monuments and memorials, seat of national government, etc.)
Nashville 2004 (Grand Ole Opry)
San Diego 2005
Pittsburgh 2006 (riverfront in Old Steel Town)
Albuquerque 2007 (spicy chilies)
Anaheim 2010

For me, the convention being held in different cities makes for an opportunity to tour and vacation in a new place every year. I will continue to attend the conventions.

Were there any performances that stood out for you in particular? Who was the performer and what did they play? The flute choir showcase of the Kirameki Flute Orchestra stood out above all the others – flawless and easy to listen to, including featured soloists’ cadenzas/highlights. (The Kirameki Flute Orchestra consists of professional flutists from major orchestras and ensembles throughout Japan. I recognized one of their members, a contrabass flute player, as having performed in a previous convention, with Concert Lumiere.

What was your favorite part of the entire convention? My favorite part of the convention is being able to meet other flutists, and occasionally offering tips/insight on selecting/purchasing a harmony (alto or bass) flute.

What special thing, if anything, did you buy in the exhibit hall? No purchases in the exhibit hall. I did pick up a free poster of the Kirameki Flute Orchestra. Tried mostly bass and alto flutes. (“I went to the convention and all I got was this T-shirt” J)

If you made a major purchase (flute, headjoint, etc.), what did you buy and what did you replace? No major purchase this year.

Is there anything else you'd like to talk about (concerning the convention, flute playing, the flute choir, etc.)? For some reason, I found myself volunteering/assisting/chatting with Kelly Via often (moving chairs and music stands before/after flute choir performances, handing out music at reading sessions, etc). Kelly is the NFA Flute Choirs Coordinator. I enjoy his flute choir arrangements; the Culver City Flute Choir has performed many of them.

Not to be over-saturated with the flute in four days, I have also taken diversions to Major League Baseball games, usually on Friday night, whenever they were easily accessible (Arizona Diamondbacks, Atlanta Braves [cap night], San Diego Padres [hat night], and Pittsburgh Pirates [bobble-head night]).

Post-convention interview: Patrick

2010-09-20T08:37:00.000-07:00

Was this your first time attending the flute convention? If no, what keeps you interested in returning? If yes, will you go again? Yes, it was my first time attending the flute convention and I plan on going again in the near future.

Were there any performances that stood out for you in particular? Who was the performer and what did they play? All of the performances were amazing so it's hard to say which ones stood out because they were all great; however, I really like Project Trio. And I'm sorry to say I don't remember what they played.

What was your favorite part of the entire convention? My favorite part of the entire convention was the first night's 8:00 p.m. concert just because the energy in the room was amazing.

What special thing, if anything, did you buy in the exhibit hall? Hahahahaha. I bought about $200 dollars of music at the convention. : )

If you made a major purchase (flute, headjoint, etc.), what did you buy and what did you replace? No major purchases for me, just a ton of music.

Is there anything else you'd like to talk about (concerning the convention, flute playing, the flute choir, etc.)? The flute convention was so unbelievably amazing seeing all of the different flutists and the different styles of music.

Post-convention interview: Julie

2010-09-19T13:25:00.000-07:00

Was this your first time attending the flute convention? If no, what keeps you interested in returning? If yes, will you go again? This was not my first convention but my first since 2004. I have never been able to make it to all four days of the conventions but I've attended Columbus (2000), Washington DC (2002) and Nashville (2004). I'm hoping to possibly attend in Charlotte next year (Trevor Wye and Carol Wincenc are the lifetime achievement honorees) and I'm planning on going to Las Vegas in 2012.

Were there any performances that stood out for you in particular? Who was the performer and what did they play? All the performances were inspiring and wonderful. Even the weird modern stuff where the performer gets weird tonal sounds out of the flute. While that music doesn't particularly appeal to me, I'm impressed and respect the technique involved to make those sounds.

As for performances, I went to a Headliner Recital on Friday starring Nobutaka Shimizu. He is, without question, the best flutist I've ever heard. Beautiful tone, technically amazing, it was AMAZING. When he finished, the entire audience jumped to their feet. It was unreal. He was the biggest highlight for me.

The other favorite performance was the Friday night Gala Concert featuring the Lifetime Achievement Recipients Leone Buyse and Fenwick Smith. They both performed solo and a duet and it was fabulous to hear them play. The second half of the concert featured players who studied under them. Wow, they were great. The most impressive was the final performance by Marianne Gedigian. She played "Fantasy on Der Freischutz" by Raffanel. It was technically very difficult and beautiful (as opposed to some of the modern stuff that was performed) and she blew everyone else out of the water.

I attended a masterclass on Sunday lead by Michael Faust. He performed at the Saturday Concert and he performed modern stuff. That was just OK. The masterclass was outstanding. There were three students performing for him and his notes to these three outstanding flutists was inspiring. He knew the music so well, he had such a lovely personality and sense of humor, he was able to give notes that were helpful and not an ounce of "talking down" to these students. I stayed the entire 90 minutes and enjoyed it thoroughly.

I also attended a lobby concert on Sunday featuring the Davis Youth Flute Choir. They were mostly high school students and they were pretty good. What I wanted to see performed was the Brandenburg No. 4 for full flute choir, since this is my all time favorite piece. They did have some pitch issues (so do we at time so I wasn't throwing any stones) but I LOVED the piece. It's a challenging arrangement that had good, meaty parts for everyone. I'd love for us to play this because we could totally do it.

What was your favorite part of the entire convention? The concert with Nobutaka Shimizu what the highlight.

What special thing, if anything, did you buy in the exhibit hall? I didn't make any big purchases. I did buy some music of some of the pieces I had heard performed at the convention.

If you made a major purchase (flute, headjoint, etc.), what did you buy and what did you replace? I will probably take the plunge and buy a gold headjoint by the end of the year. In 2004, I tried a 10k Sankyo gold flute and it felt and sounded great for me. 6 years later, that's still the best sounding flute for me. So I played the rose gold flute which sounded great and then I tried the 14k gold flute which also sounded great, but too expensive. But I tried the 14k gold headjoint with my flute body and it sounded fabulous. So I'm working on saving up a little bit more and then hopefully I'll make that big purchase.

Is there anything else you'd like to talk about (concerning the convention, flute playing, the flute choir, etc.)? I'm glad I went this year after so many years off. Like everything else in these economic times, I thought it was "smaller" than what I remembered in 2004. I looked at my convention book from that year and there were definitely more activities going on. I remember really having a tough time choosing where to go because there were so many interesting events going on at the same time. This year, the event choices were all good, but it was easy to pick the one I wanted to go to. I didn't really play my flute this year other than the closing ceremonies. I was inspired by all the great players and if I'm able to buy the headjoint in the next few months, I'll be much happier playing my flute.

Post-convention interview: Gary

2010-09-19T13:22:00.000-07:00

Was this your first time attending the flute convention? If no, what keeps you interested in returning? If yes, will you go again? First time.

Were there any performances that stood out for you in particular? Who was the performer and what did they play? Greg Pattillo. I didn't care for beat boxing until I heard him. He is amazing.

What was your favorite part of the entire convention? I really liked the master classes. It's amazing to see truly excellent musicians improve their performances so radically with just a few minutes direction from an expert.

What special thing, if anything, did you buy in the exhibit hall? Sheet music. Judy talked me out of a new flute, said I should learn to play the one I have first :-). I also got my wife a scarf with piano keys on it.

Is there anything else you'd like to talk about (concerning the convention, flute playing, the flute choir, etc.)? It was a great time, lots of music of all kinds, fun to shop, and fun to be around other flutists in our group. Wonderful performances.

Post-convention interview: Shannon

2010-09-19T13:18:00.000-07:00

Was this your first time attending the flute convention? If no, what keeps you interested in returning? If yes, will you go again? I've gone every year since the Ohio Convention! I go every year I love being surrounded by thousands of flutists! It also gives me a chance to catch up with some of fellow flutist friends. I will definitely go again.

Were there any performances that stood out for you in particular? Who was the performer and what did they play? I really enjoyed the concerto night! I also enjoyed helping Megan pick out a new flute.

What was your favorite part of the entire convention? My favorite part of the convention were the first 2 days. Don't remember much of second half as I was on vicodin.

What special thing, if anything, did you buy in the exhibit hall? I bought a new flute case cover, new flute bag, exchanged my flute/alto stand, and bought a very expensive book of chants for solo flute!

If you made a major purchase (flute, headjoint, etc.), what did you buy and what did you replace? My goal when I bought my current flute 8 years ago was to save up money to buy a all silver flute within 10 years. Well I have 2 more years to meet that goal...

Is there anything else you'd like to talk about (concerning the convention, flute playing, the flute choir, etc.)? Looking forward to next year's convention!

Shannon's Photos:

Shannon and a contrabass flute

Shannon and a bass flute

Megan and Patrick working on a duet

Megan and her mom in the exhibit hall

Judy tries an alto... or is it a bass?
It's awfully foreshortened in this photo.

Is that Julie playing her dream flute?

Looks like Judy is getting curious about wooden flutes!

An amazing flutist

2010-08-26T14:35:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, August 15, Patrick and I were driving home from a family reunion that took place in Aptos, CA (Aptos is near Santa Cruz). It was a long drive, and there was a ton of traffic, and for much of the way, Patrick (who had suggested taking the 101 instead of the speedier 5, as we had for the drive up north!) was asleep. It was fine with me - I turned up the Radiohead and watched the road.

But one can only listen to so much Radiohead, and so when we got to Santa Barbara, where traffic was at its worst (I heard later that Hailey Duff, the actress [or actress's sister?] was married that day in Santa Barbara, but I don't know if we can blame her for the traffic), we pulled off the freeway to find a bathroom and to just feel our legs again. While I was waiting for Patrick (he went inside the 7-11 or wherever we were to buy me a bottle of water), I was flipping around on the radio.

I stopped when I found a performance of "Concertino," by Cecile Chaminade.

This piece was (is, maybe, I'll have to ask) a rite of passage for my flute teacher's students (most of you know that my flute teacher was, and sometimes is, Patty Sikorski, the leader of the Culver City Flute Choir) when I was a teenager. We all played it when we were around the age of high school seniors. Ready or not, here you go! I also got to play it (once) with my high school band (I guess we had a band arrangement? Oh, that was a long time ago), and boy, what I would give for the opportunity to do that again! SO much fun. I love to hear it played, too - it's a fun piece all around. And I remember my wonky counting on the triplets that I had to fix. For some reason my rhythm was wacky in some really strange places.

Anyway, since then (I won't tell you how long it's been since I was a high school senior... but it was a while ago) I've pretty much kept the music in a permanent place on my music stand. I get it out and play it once in awhile, and fall in love with it all over again. I love the power I feel when I play it - it's a beautiful melody, and definitely the opposite of wimpy - I always feel like a French soldier going to war when I play it. I like to think that in the __ years since I "learned" it that I've acquired more skills and better technique than I had as a high school senior, but who knows? When you play alone in the living room with just the cats, neighbors and your husband for an audience (and chances are the cats and Patrick aren't listening) there's not a whole lot of feedback.

After Patrick returned from the convenience store, we sat there in the parking lot to listen - I wanted to hear who the player was. I thought the performance was very exciting, though the tone was slightly, just a teeny tiny bit rough (I just love sparkling, knifelike flute playing), but like I said, it was a very exciting performance, full of lots of life and speed and waaaay faster and better than I could play it. I don't even really feel right about criticising the playing - it was truly a great performance.

So imagine my surprise when the announcer (who turned out to be Christopher O'Reilly; we were listening to the "From the Top" radio show) said that the performer was Emma Resmini, a flutist who is - wait for it - 9 years old. 9 years old! At 9 years old I was barely starting, and really didn't know what this "flute" thing in my hands was. She's incredible, and her interview was fun and interesting, and man, I'm impressed.

You can read her bio here. She's a Sonare artist. Sonare is part of Powell, and I have recently become a long-distance love affair with Powell flutes (the distance between us is the cost of the flutes!).

There are YouTube videos available, and I'll link to some of them later or you can search for her yourself. I see that one of them is the first movement of the Hindemith flute sonata (another favorite!). I know what I'll be doing later.

Click on the title of this post and you should be taken to the "From the Top" website and the show we heard in Santa Barbara. Enjoy! And brava, Emma!

A walking flutist needs your help!

2010-08-10T11:21:00.000-07:00

I may have mentioned before that the reason I play the piccolo now is because back in high school I had a friend named Deb who encouraged and helped me with it, and I'm so glad she was there, because she made playing the flute and piccolo fun and exciting for me, especially when we hit the high notes in tune.

We were marching Centaurs together at Culver City Senior High School, and somewhere there's a photo of us both in our goofy band uniforms, but instead I'm just going to share one of Deb (I think she's in the 8th grade here), because today she's the star of this show:

That's Deb, right in the middle, holding a flute. Isn't she cute! This was before she unleashed her piccolo prowess on us (and way before she traded in her flutes for a saxophone, which we won't be discussing today!).

(Or, Deb, is that a metal picc and I'm just blind?)

So what will we be discussing today?

Deb has signed up for the Susan G. Komen 3-Day Walk for a Cure. She'll be walking November 19-21 in San Diego, and yes, you read that right: 3 days of walking, 60 miles total.

She's doing it to honor her friends and family who have struggled with cancer, and she's doing it because she has a huge heart and because she cares.

She's been hard at work training and fundraising and raising her young family, and I can't think of a much better cause than this. You all know how personally cancer has affected my life, and I know I'm not the only one.

If you would like to support Deb, a former flutist (and believe me, I'd love to remove that "former" from this description! Deb, you're amazing!) in her walk, you can visit her web page and make a donation.

Thanks for reading this.

Fall 2010 Session Begins Soon!

2010-07-26T08:45:00.000-07:00

Believe it or not, the Adult School 2010 Fall catalog and schedule are available now! It's time to plan ahead for the next full session of flute choir! We'll begin Thursday, September 16 for ten weeks through December 9 (no class 9/23, 11/11, or 11/25). As usual, this schedule may change.

The cost this time around is $115.

Click here to register online, click here for the fall catalog.

You can also register in person at the Adult School Office, located at 4909 Overland Ave., Culver City, CA 90230 (please call ahead for their summer hours), or by telephone (310) 842-4300.

If you have any questions about the Culver City Flute Choir, please contact CCFC.Info@gmail.com.

Enjoy your summer! I'm looking forward to seeing you in the fall!

Concert tonight!

2010-07-01T12:33:00.000-07:00

Please join us tonight for our concert at Farragut Elementary School!

This concert will feature the whole group, and smaller ensembles!

July 1, 2010
8:00 p.m.

Farragut Elementary School
10820 Farragut Dr.
Culver City, CA 90230

Refreshments follow the concert.

Map:

View Larger Map

Sonata for Piccolo and Piano by Mike Mower

2010-06-18T09:34:00.000-07:00

Patty sent me this link today. This piece by Mike Mower sounds exciting and definitely "Firey" and fun to play! And Patrick Healey is a piccolo monster!

Enjoy!

Starting to get pretty excited about the flute convention

2010-06-09T10:55:00.000-07:00

This morning I woke up thinking about the convention. This year it's going to be in Anaheim, and since I live in Long Beach, that's pretty cool - a nice 20 minute drive instead of a trip across the country! And no hotel stay! I can come home and sleep in my own comfy bed with my own perfect pillow!

The NFA has posted a schedule already, so I downloaded it and started checking off the things I'm interested in. There's something cool going on all the time, and my day will be pretty full.

Here's a taste of what's got my attention so far (list subject to change!):

Piccolo Gems
Thursday, August 12; 10:30-11:45

This concert will feature Nan Raphael, Walfrid Kujala and a host of other piccolo players accompanied by the CSU Fullerton Wind Symphony. I've seen Walfrid Kujala a couple of times before, and he's awesome. He's one of Patty's favorite players, so that's how I'm familiar with him. And it's impossible to pass up a piccolo concert when the players are as good as these!

Headliner Recital
Thursday, August 12; 12:15-1:15

This concert features Demarre McGill from the San Diego Symphony. I'm going to wait and see what's on the program, but I'm sure it's going to be good!

Flute Choirs in Concert
Thursday, August 12; 12-1

The fun thing about the convention is scrambling from one thing to the next. When the program is posted, I'll see if I can do both this and the headliner recital without missing anything I really want to see. The flute choirs to be performing are the Central Arizona Flute Ensemble and Bel Canto Flutes.

All that Jazz
Thursday, August 12, 1:30-2:30

Louise DiTullio! Louise DiTullio! Need I say more?

Headliner Recital
Thursday, August 12, 3-4

This concert will be featuring Mexican and Mexican-American composers. I know very little music by Mexican/Mexican-American composers. I'm looking forward to learning something.

Headliner Recital
Thursday, August 12, 5-6

Jim Walker! Need I say more?

Gala Concert - Chamber Music with a Twist
Thursday, August 12, 8-10

Aside from all the recitals and music and stuff you learn and shopping... the gala concerts are not to be missed at the convention. Greg Pattillo (the beatboxing flutist) will be performing at this one, and it sounds like fun.

Chamber Music for Flute and Percussion
Friday, August 13, 9-10

Come on, I'm married to a drummer; I an contractually obligated to attend this concert. Maybe I'll even convince Patrick to come with me. Plus, one of the flutists is Alexa Still, and I've seen her before and love her playing.

Music for Piccolo and Piano
Friday, August 13, 10-11

More piccolo! One of the pieces is by one of my favorite composers, Francis Poulenc.

California Innovators and Australian Composers
Friday, August 13, 10-11:30

Alexa Still is performing again. Conflict with the piccolo/piano concert, but I can catch the last 30 minutes.

Strange Bedfellows-Music for Flutes, Piccolo and Unlikely Partners
Friday, August 13, 11:30-12:30

Not much information is provided, but the title is certainly intriguing. Featuring Jan Gippo, Madera Winds, Maria Ramey, and Debora Harris.

Flute Choir Showcase
Friday, August 13, 1:30-2:30

I love seeing other flute choirs perform!

Anyway, I made notes through closing ceremony on Sunday, and I'll post the rest of the things that interest me later. Are you getting excited yet? Have you registered and started making plans?

Our next concert

2010-05-18T12:29:00.001-07:00

Hi, everyone,

We have a date for our next concert! Join us on Thursday, July 1, 2010 at 8:00 p.m. at Farragut Elementary School!

Hope to see you soon,
Irene

Agnew + McAllister Duo - Updated with concert notes

2010-03-28T11:49:00.000-07:00

Patrick and I went to the flute and guitar concert on Friday night, and it was awesome.

If you missed it, I suggest you check out Aisling Agnew and Matthew McAllister's website for their upcoming performances and see if you can make one of them. Beautiful playing.

What I loved in particular about their performance was the amazing partnership. Both are wonderful musicians, but the way they interacted with each other was special. I don't know if they're a couple? But the way he looks at her and she at him, it was romantic. I haven't seen a lot of classical guitarists; I really loved the way he places his head on his guitar. They were wonderful.

In the video above, Aisling is playing a traditional metal flute, but at the concert, she was playing a wooden flute. I got to speak with her a little afterward, and besides being a big old dork (me, of course), I did ask her about it, but first I told her how much I enjoyed her playing. She really is amazingly talented. Anyway, I've seen and heard wooden flutes before but never really fell in love with the sound. She was really easy to talk to and very nice. She told me that her flute is made by The Abell Flute Company, an American flute maker. She said that though the flute isn't as easy to play as some (it has a piccolo-type headjoint, and I guess other wooden flutes have lip plates and things to make it easier; I don't know enough about this to say anything intelligent other than what she told me in the short amount of time we spoke), the sound of it, once she got the hang of it, was most pleasing to her. I should have asked if they'll be at the flute convention.

Here's a video of Aisling and Matthew performing a piece by Poulenc. She's using her wooden flute here.

Totally gorgeous.

So now I have three things to look for at the flute convention in August: Robert Langevin, Aisling Agnew and Matthew McAllister (I'm counting them as one), and Abell Flutes.

Oh, and the concert on Friday was presented by the Long Beach Classical Guitar Society.

Concert notes:

Hamnataing, by Chris Stout (b. 1976)
Agua e Vinho, by Egberto Gismonti (b. 1941)
Suite no. 2, by Leo Brouwer (b. 1939)
Farewell to Stromness, by Peter Maxwell Davies (b. 1934)
An Chuilin, Irish Traditional
Sonata in G Major, by Pietro Lacatelli (1695-1764)
Suite No. 1 BMW 1007, by J.S. Bach (1685-1750)
Wens, by Veronique Vella (b. 1979)
Histoire du Tango, by Astor Piazzola (1921-1992)

Excerpt from bio section:

Flautist Aisling Agnew and classical guitarist Matthew McAllister met in Glasgow whilst studying at the Royal Scotttish Academy of Music and Drama. Their joint passion for chamber music, interacting with composers and performing new music immediately brought them together. Since giving their debut recital in the "Harty Room" of Queen's University, Belfast in 2001, they have grown in popularilty and perform extensively around the UK and Ireland.

As one of Ireland's finest young flautists, Aisling has given performances in the prestigious "Guildhall Gold" series at the Wigmore Hall and appeared as concerto soloist with the Ulster Orchestra and the Royal Scottish National Orchestra.

Matthew is widely regarded as one of Scotland's finest classical guitarists. He has appeared on British and Spanish television, recorded for the BBC Artists Index, and co-starred alongside Aled Jones in the 2005 Southwell International Festival.

Concert in Long Beach - Tomorrow Night!

2010-03-25T21:12:00.000-07:00

My friend Christopher Hundley is a guitarist. He started out as Patrick's friend, and was the guitarist for Patrick's punk band, Magnolia Thunderpussy. He's an amazing guitarist, and a talented classical player too. We've done a little playing together at some teeny tiny little gigs (a wedding, a library luncheon) but it's been a few years. Recently we've been talking about playing again, and have scheduled a rehearsal/get-together for Sunday afternoon.

When I was searching around for the sheet music for Morceau de Concours by Faure, I saw that a version exists for flute and guitar. I found it at Carolyn Nussbaum. Since Chris is coming over this weekend, I called my local music store, Morey's Music, to see if it might be in stock and something I could pick up soon.

It turned out the guy I spoke to, Michael, is a guitarist who plays (quite a bit, judging by their website!) with a flutist here in Long Beach. Pretty cool. Morey's didn't have the piece I wanted, but Michael told me about a concert tomorrow night in Long Beach that I think Patrick and I will go check out.

(Funny: while Michael and I were talking, he asked if I'm a flutist or a guitarist. I said flutist. He asked who I play with, and I told him Chris's name. He said that he had heard of him. I wonder if they know each other from USC, or if Michael is an MTP fan?)

The performers are a flute and guitar duo from Scotland. I think they just call themselves "Flute & Guitar Duo"? Simple! Anyway, you can check them out here http://www.fluteguitarduo.com/.

The concert will be at St. Luke's Espicopal Church, which is located near the corner of 7th and Atlantic, in Long Beach. Tickets are $10. Maybe we'll see you there.

Oh, and I just ordered the Faure, but I think maybe tomorrow I'll see what else is going on, sheet music-wise, at Morey's. Now I'm curious.

Another flutist, performing Morceau de Concours, by Faure

2010-03-24T20:44:00.000-07:00

Pretty!

Robert Langevin

2010-03-23T20:27:00.001-07:00

I think you will enjoy this.

Robert Langevin at CSULB

2010-03-23T08:46:00.000-07:00

On Friday night, Patrick and I went to Cal State Long Beach for the Robert Langevin (principal flutist for the New York Philharmonic) concert. Another Culver City flute choir member, Michael, was there too, as well as Shozo Ogura, of Ogura Fluteworks. It was nice seeing our friends! The concert was part of two days of master classes and a competition for middle and high school students, but because of my schedule, I couldn't go to either of the master classes. Having now heard Mr. Langevin perform, I regret missing the classes. I'm sure they would have been fun and educational!

I was so impressed by Mr. Langevin's performance! You can visit the New York Philharmonic's website by clicking on the title of today's post. I'll be looking for more opportunities to hear him perform; I really hope he'll be at the flute convention in August, in Anaheim.

His playing was so gorgeous; I was totally blown away. I really loved how his playing was so emotional and lush and beautiful. He completely won me over with the opening piece, Sonate en Concert, by Damase. The second piece was the world premier of Flute Sonata #6 (The Toulouse-Latrec Sonata) based on Circus Illustrations by artist Toulouse-Latrec by Christopher Caliendo. I've seen Mr. Caliendo many times at the flute convention, but I don't think I've ever heard any of his solo compositions. This one was written specifically for Mr. Langevin. My favorite movement was the second - "Danseuse de corde." It was perfectly suited for Mr. Langevin, and totally evocative of the artwork. The program notes state, "All eyes are cast at the circus dancer at the tightrope." It was lovely, and really a special moment in the composition.

There was an intermission, where prizes were given out to the students who participated in the competition. I never did anything like that in middle or high school (and probably wasn't as good of a flutist as these kids are) and I got a huge kick out of seeing the little and not-so-little (one high school-age boy was probably over 6' tall!) kids. Most were still all dressed up in their concert outfits, and they were very cute.

The first piece after intermission was "Sonata in A, op 13" by Faure (I think traditionally this piece is for cello and piano?). I wasn't thrilled with this piece, though of course the execution was perfect.

After that, Mr. Langevin played "Hungarian Fantasy for Two Flutes" by Franz and Karl Doppler, with John Barcellona, the Director of Woodwind Studies and Professor of Flute at CSULB. Their performance was a lot of fun. During the first four bars, I thought, "this could be a fun duet for me and Patty to work on," but then pretty soon I realized that it will take a long, long time for me to be able to play that second flute part, which was killer. They did a great job, and added a bit of comedy (in the middle of the piece, there was a bit with a "waitress," a tray of water glasses, and the bill), which made the whole thing a lot of fun.

For an encore, Mr. Langevin performed Morceau de Concours, by Faure, which was perfectly executed and charming.

Wendy Caldwell, the pianist, was also wonderful. Her playing was as beautiful and captivating as Mr. Langevin's. Daniel Recital Hall at CSULB is a great place to see a concert like this, and I'm glad we got out for a night of flute music.

Concert Photos

2010-03-19T16:23:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone who made it to last night's Culver City Flute Choir concert! I just wanted to share with you the photos that my friends Todd Young and Brian Frobisher took of us. They did an amazing job! Big, big thanks to Todd and Brian, and also to Lee Miller for his many dedicated years of videography! We appreciate our friends very much.

Our next session starts Thursday, April 22, 2010, so if you're interested in joining us, please check out the Culver City Adult School's website or send me an email for more information.

All the best to you, and I'm looking forward to seeing you in April!

Culver City Adult School Spring/Summer 2010 Catalog
Flute Choir concert photos by Todd Young and Brian Frobisher

"Young@Heart"

2010-03-18T07:48:00.000-07:00

Flute Choir member Judy asked me to post about a film she watched this week called "Young@Heart." I haven't seen it myself but this 3 minute clip makes me want to!

Here's a quote from Judy:

Last night I watched the DVD called "Young at Heart." It blew me away, watching these people have fun rehearsing and performing - I thought it was timely. They actually performed a song successfully, after months of falling apart in rehearsal.

The reason she was thinking about rehearsals and performance is because we had our dress rehearsal on Monday for tonight's concert, and as usual, at first we were maybe a little too focused on the (minor) things that were going wrong. Hey, things go wrong! We almost always pull off a great concert! And we have fun, too. Good things to think about, Judy!

Anyway, I hope you'll join us for the concert.

Culver City Flute Choir Concert
Tonight at 8:00 p.m. (Free!)
Farragut Elementary School / Cafeteria
10820 Farragut Drive.
Culver City, CA 90230

See you there!

Concert this week!

2010-03-14T09:58:00.000-07:00

Our next concert is this Thursday, March 18, at 8 p.m.

I hope you can join us!

Farragut Elementary School / Cafeteria
10820 Farragut Drive.
Culver City, CA 90230

Refreshments follow concert.

View Larger Map

Meet the flute choir: Michael

2010-03-03T13:40:00.000-08:00

When and why did you start playing the flute?
I started playing the flute in the 4th grade; it seemed "everyone" else was doing so when the opportunity to take up an orchestral instrument was offered in elementary school (Baldwin Hills).

When did you join the flute choir? Why?
I joined the Culver City Flute Choir for the Fall Quarter 1992. (51 consecutive concerts since then; my records show that you Irene are the runner up at 50 consecutive concerts.)

[Note from Irene: WOW, Michael! That's a lot of concerts!]

I joined the flute choir as other members have - I received the Culver City Adult School schedule/brochure from one of the community mailings, and thought this would be a good outlet to continue playing the flute.

Have you played in any other flute choirs or ensembles? Where else do (have) you perform(ed)?
As a youth, I participated in the Angels (youth) group of the Japanese Philharmonic Orchestra of Los Angeles (early 1970s, conductor was Akira Kikukawa). I currently provide accompaniment (solo or with piano) for the congregational singing at my church every Sunday.

Do you play any other instruments?
Besides the C flute and the Alto flute, I do not play any other instruments (I can tinker on the piano, harmonica, recorder/tin whistle). I would love to learn to play the guitar and/or ukulele, and maybe even bagpipes!

Is your family musical?
My family is not musical at this time. One of my brothers took up the trumpet in elementary school/junior high for a couple of years. Likewise, another brother took up the flute (my flute) while I was away at college.

Describe your family's musical interests and abilities.
Besides the anbove, there are no musical abilities in my family.

Who is your biggest fan?
I would have to say my biggest fan is one of my fellow church members who attends most of our concerts.

Which famous musicians do you admire (doesn't have to just be flutists!)? Why?
I admire Christopher Parkening, Harvey Pittel, and Branford Marsalis - they play their instruments (guitar, saxophones respectively) in the classical genre as well as their instruments "native" genre of folk or jazz.

Who was your first teacher? Other teachers?
My first (and only) private teacher was Francis Schaeffer (no, not the Christian theologian). I recall he also taught the flute and other woodwind instruments to my Japanese-American neighbors.

What are your fondest musical memories?
Hmm... when playing the flute in the high school orchestra (Salinas, CA) with the drama club (Peter and the Wolf), and another high school's drama/ballet club (The Nutcracker ballet), and for special occasions (a friend's wedding and Christmas caroling).

Do you get nervous during a performance?
Rarely do I get nervous during a performance. (I do recall one instance though, where "nervousness" was in the air/contagious and affected me also - a student recital at Ogura Flute Works.)

How do you handle mistakes?
I think I unconsciously smile or roll my eyes when I make a mistake. Hopefully, I do as Jean-Pierre Rampal did - recover/continue the music, and try to make it a part of the musical experience.

What advice would you give new flutists?
For new flutists, I would recommend lots of listening - whether of other flutists to hear how you might sound, or of your own (recorded) practicing and lessons to hear how you do sound. Then practicing how you should and want to sound.

What advice would you give new flute choir members?
For new flute choir members, I say relax! Hopefully you will come to enjoy producing good music for family and friends as we all do.

What do you practice? How often?
Practice? (Can I skip to the next question?)

How do you balance your music with other obligations - mate, children, job?
I devote a certain amount of time for music, as music is one of those integral/fundamental parts of life.

Is there anything else you'd like to add about the flute, flute choir...?
I appreciate this opportunity and privilege of playing the flute.

Culver City Flute Choir in the Culver City Observer

2010-03-02T10:46:00.000-08:00

The Culver City Observer printed a notice of our concert on the 18th, along with a photo. Congratulations to my friend Paul Rubenstein, who took the gorgeous photo of us! I'm sorry there's no credit for your photo, Paul: I did tell them your name!

(While admittedly it's pretty easy to be mentioned in the Culver City Observer [all I did was ask!], this is still pretty cool to see! Please click on the title of today's post, and you'll be taken to the issue of newspaper. The mention of the concert is on page 9.)

On the same page as the story about us, you might be interested to read a story about Reid Smythe, a former private flute student of Patty's who just earned his "dolphins" and is now a qualified Naval Submariner! I haven't seen Reid in years (not since he was in high school; I'm probably about 10 years older than him?), so it was a surprise to see him all grown up and so accomplished. It's totally cool and a huge coincidence he was on the same page as we are! Too bad they didn't make any mention of his flute playing... I'm sure Patty's tutelage (toot-elage? Oh, that was a horrible pun!) had something to do with his success!

In other news, I received a very kind email the other day from a flutist from Scotland who had heard our performance of "Ashokan Farewell." His group, Dykehead Amateur Flute Band, can be seen here. It's very cool to receive emails from other flutists and flute choirs, and to receive a message all the way from Scotland - super cool. If any other flutists from other countries or cities around the world or the United States are reading this, I'd be very interested in finding out who you are and where you're from!

For a mention in this space, send an email to CCFC.Info@gmail.com!

Master Class with Robert Langevin at Cal State University, Long Beach

2010-02-25T11:20:00.000-08:00

I received a flyer in the mail about an upcoming master class in Long Beach with flutist Robert Langevin, and thought I'd share the information here.

Robert Langevin is the principal flutist for the New York Philharmonic.

When:
Master Classes
Friday, March 19
7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Saturday, March 20
1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Where:
California State University, Long Beach
University Music Center, A-301

Artist Performance
When:
Saturday, March 20
8:00 p.m.

Where:
California State University, Long Beach
Daniel Recital Hall, A-100

The Artist Performance will feature Robert Langevin with Wendy Caldwell (piano) and John Barcellona (flute).

The cost to attend both masterclasses (auditors) is $25, and checks can be mailed in advance or paid at the door. Make checks payable to CSULB Woodwind Chamber Music.

The cost to attend the concert is $10/$7. Contact the Arts Ticket Office at (562) 985-7000.

You can get more information by contacting John Barcellona at (562) 985-4739 (jbarcell@csulb.edu). Or try www.csulb.edu/coleconservatory.

The NY Times reviews a performance by Carol Wincenc

2010-02-24T13:57:00.000-08:00

Oh, if I had been lucky enough to be in New York, and see/hear this performance! (Click on the title of this post and you'll be taken to the New York Times article I'm talking about.)

However... I have been lucky enough to hear Carol Wincenc perform... at the flute convention! She always looks beautiful, too. I love the red dresses in the photo in the NY Times piece. I don't know if she's going to be in LA for this year's convention, but great performers like her are one more reason to go. And all the concerts are included in the price you pay to go to the convention.

The convention is what? Less than six months away! I'm starting to get excited. Are you?

Meet the flute choir: Diane

2010-02-18T08:18:00.000-08:00

When and why did you start playing the flute?
When I was in the fourth grade, music lessons were offered at my school for all the common orchestra instruments. I wanted to play them all, I picked the flute pretty arbitrarily. Now I'm glad I did.

When did you join the flute choir? Why?
I joined the flute choir two years ago. I had been looking for a local group to play with and just stumbled upon the description in the adult school catalog.

Have you played in any other flute choirs or ensembles? Where else do (have) you perform(ed)?
I played in the Jr. Phil. when I was in Jr. high school. No other flute choirs. I didn't even know what a flute choir was until I joined this one!

Do you play any other instruments?
I started playing the drums in Jr. High, but the boys in the percussion section made it difficult to be the only girl, so I went back to the flute section.

Is your family musical?
Not until this past year when both my parents picked up the ukelele!

Describe your family's musical interests and abilities.
Besides the ukelele serenades?

Who is your biggest fan?
My boyfriend, Josh.

Which famous musicians do you admire (doesn't have to just be flutists!)? Why?
The LA philharmonic. Their peformances are always so flawless and beautiful!

Who was your first teacher? Other teachers?
My most significant teacher's name is Ellen Burr. She really helped me improve as a player and the things she taught me come out every time I pick up the flute.

What are your fondest musical memories?
Playing with the Jr. Phil in the big grand concert halls and of course every concert with the flute choir in the cafetorium.

Do you get nervous during a performance?
Yes, but not as much as I used to.

How do you handle mistakes?
What mistakes? I pretend they didn't happen so I can continue on and focus on the rest of the piece.

What advice would you give new flutists?
Chop up the hard parts into small sections and play them over and over and over...

What advice would you give new flute choir members?
Come back, we miss you!

What do you practice? How often?
Pretty much only flute choir music at least an hour a day.

How do you balance your music with other obligations - mate, children, job?
It's tough but I make time. No TV. No children.

Is there anything else you'd like to add about the flute, flute choir...?
I am so thankful to have the opportunity to play and be a part of this group!

Le Tombeau de Couperin (Menuet)

2010-02-05T10:22:00.000-08:00

We're playing an arrangment of this for flute choir. It was originally composed for piano. I like this orchestral version:

In flute choir, the piccolo gets most of the oboe's line. It's really pretty - the whole thing is beautiful. The first night we played it, I was having trouble hearing it and understanding what I was hearing. I really thought I was in the wrong key. It could be that I was out of tune. I need to play my piccolo more! Last night we worked on pitch and being in tune; I think we're getting there. I hope people weren't getting bored, because it is so hard to play when we're out of tune, and it's really important to work on it.
I'm looking forward to working on this!

Overture to the Marriage of Figaro

2010-01-22T22:21:00.000-08:00

I've been thinking a lot about the marriage of Figaro lately... and so this seemed appropriate. Also, I'm not sure if I've ever heard a more perfect flute choir than this one.

Winter 2010 Session

2010-01-06T14:27:00.000-08:00

Happy new year, everybody! Flute choir starts again on Thursday, January 21st. Have you registered yet?

Here's our rehearsal schedule (subject to change):

Week 1: January 21
Week 2: January 28
Week 3: February 4
Week 4: February 11
Week 5: February 18
Week 6: February 25
Week 7: March 11
Week 8: March 18
(Week 9: March 22)
Week 10: March 25

The adult school catalog lists us as having one Monday rehearsal in there somewhere; as usual, we'll have to wait and see when that one will be until we get a little closer. My best guess is that the Monday rehearsal will fall during our ninth week (Monday, March 22), and then we'll have the concert March 25 - but if I were you, I'd wait until we finalize these dates before I made any plans.

Looking forward to seeing you!

Beatboxing Flute "Peter and the Wolf"

2009-12-29T23:46:00.001-08:00

I saw this on youtube and thought it was pretty cool. It always amazes me the sounds that can come out of a flute and a flute player. Enjoy!

Los Angeles Holiday Concert Calendar

2009-12-14T11:04:00.000-08:00

Hi, everyone,

Next year I will do this listing earlier to catch some concerts that occured in November and early December, as well as Hanukkah concerts and festivals. If you'd like me to add your concert or information to this list please email me (see sidebar for contact information).

December 15: The Unitarian Universalist Community Church of Santa Monica, The Messiah 8:00 p.m.
Selections from Handel’s Messiah will be performed by Michelle McWilliams, Danielle Marcelle Bond, Steve Grabe and Eric Carampatan, accompanied by a chamber ensemble. Suggested donation is $15, or $10 with a non perishable food donation for the Westside Food Bank. Unitarian Universalist Community Church of Santa Monica

December 15 & 16: Los Angeles Philharmonic, Handel's Messiah 8 p.m.
It’s hard to imagine Christmas without the most famous oratorio of all time. Experience a complete period-instrument performance, with a stellar lineup of Baroque vocal specialists. Walt Disney Concert Hall

December 18: Viva Christmas! With El Vez & Los Straitjackets 8 p.m.
El Vez, "The Mexican Elvis" puts on an incredible, fun, wild and crazy Christmas concert. The Troubador

December 19: Burbank Chorale, Celebrate! 7:30 p.m.
The Burbank Chorale presents Antonio Vivaldi's "Gloria" and songs of the season. First United Methodist Church

December 19: Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels: Cathedral Christmas Concert 7:30 p.m.
The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels will hold a Christmas Concert with the Cathedral Choir, the Harmonies Girls Choir and the Los Angeles Symphony Orchestra on Dec. 19, 7:30 p.m. The program includes selections from Handel's "Messiah" and the "Messe Solennelle" by Charles Gounod. Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angeles

December 19: Pasadena POPS: Holiday Pops 8 p.m.
During this season of gifts and giving, enjoy a reprieve from the hectic pace by joining the Pasadena POPS as we begin a new family tradition with music that conjures up all the delights and joys of the holidays. Vocalist Valarie Pettiford, the Donald Brinegar Singers and the Los Angeles Children’s Chorus will warm your heart and stir your soul with enchanted holiday favorites. Music from A Charlie Brown Christmas, Home Alone and The Polar Express alongside cherished Christmas melodies Jingle Bells, Silent Night, Nutcracker, O Holy Night and Hallelujah Chorus will culminate in a grand finale of timeless Sing-Alongs to bring you the sparkling musical gems known and loved in this most wonderful time of the year! Pasadena Civic Auditorium

December 19 & 20: Los Angeles Ballet's The Nutcracker Various times
Celebrate the city's newest, most endearing tradition - Los Angeles Ballet's acclaimed original production of "The Nutcracker". Join Clara as she journeys to magical realms where mischievous mice battle toy soldiers, snowflakes dance, and Clara's beloved dolls come to life. Royce Hall

December 20: LA Master Chorale Messiah Sing-Along 7 p.m.
The annual Messiah Sing-Along packs the house every year. Whether you join in the joyful singing of just listen from your seat, this is a wonderfully popular community experience. With soloists and an orchestra onstage, you are the chorus! Walt Disney Concert Hall

December 20: Pacific Chorale, Tis the Season 5:30 p.m.
Orange County's favorite holiday tradition! Pacific Chorale, Pacific Symphony and the Southern California Children's Concert Chorus bring the spirit of the season to life through carols, classics, and cheer. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall (Costa Mesa)

December 20, 24 & 27: Organ Prelude 10:30 a.m.
The organ and organists of First Congregational Church of Los Angeles are spectactular. When I worked just a few blocks away, I spent every Thursday at lunch enjoying a free organ concert. I don't think they do that anymore but here is an opportunity to hear Christmas music in this gorgeous space. First Congregational Church of Los Angeles

December 23: Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Creole Christmas 8:00 p.m.
Enjoy the festive spirit with the rousing New Orleans jazz sounds of Preservation Hall. Stomp, clap, hoot, and holler, as they take on Christmas favorites and Creole classics in their inimitable style. Walt Disney Concert Hall

December 24: LA County Holiday Celebration 3 p.m.
The six-hour, Emmy-nominated cultural extravaganza is L.A.'s biggest holiday show - and it's free, so bring the whole family! Broadcast live from the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion on KCET, Holiday Celebration features music and dance of the season from the many neighborhoods and cultures of Los Angeles. Dorothy Chandler Pavilion (KCET)

Concert Photos: December 3, 2009

2009-12-10T19:57:00.000-08:00

My friend Paul and his camera couldn't make it to this concert, so the only photos I have so far are the ones I was able to take while the altos were playing. Obviously I was rather busy the rest of the time!

Meet the flute choir: Julie

2009-12-07T08:45:00.000-08:00

When and why did you start playing the flute?
I started playing the flute when I was 10 years old. I already had been taking piano lessons for three years and thought the flute was a cool instrument.

When did you join the flute choir? Why?
I joined the Culver City Flute Choir in the summer of 1995. I randomly got the class catalogue in the mail and it said "have you not played your flute since high school or college?" That sounded exactly like me. I hadn't played for about nine years after college and I wanted to start playing again.

Have you played in any other flute choirs or ensembles? Where else do (have) you perform(ed)?
My flute teacher growing up would have us play ensemble pieces at our annual recital. In college, I played in the UCSB Symphonic Band.

Do you play any other instruments?
I play C flute, piccolo, alto and bass. Growing up, I played piano for nine years.

Is your family musical?
My maternal grandmother was a classical piano teacher. My paternal grandfather was a big band leader for a time. My mom is a singer. My dad played saxophone growing up.

Describe your family's musical interests and abilities.
The abilities are listed above. My parents have always been interested in music. I listened to a lot of classical music growing up thanks to my mom's training. They were, still are, big theater fans so I went to the theater and was a big fan of musical theater and movie musicals from a very early age.

Who is your biggest fan?
Today, probably my six year old daughter. Although my parents have always supported my flute performances and still come to every concert.

Which famous musicians do you admire (doesn't have to be just flutists!)? Why?
There are so many. Billy Joel is a God to me. I think he's such a prolific songwriter and I love hearing him play the piano.

I find I'm really impressed by drummers. They're such great multi-taskers doing so many different things at once. I love listening to drum corps.

I really want to learn to play the cello. I love the sound of it and it's just so beautiful.

Who was your first teacher? Other teachers?
My teacher growing up was Barbara Turner Rivin. Not sure where she is now.

What are your fondest musical memories?
My 11th grade flute recital. That was the year when the Claude Bolling Suite for Jazz Flute and Piano came out and was very popular. I performed the Sentimentale movement with my friend Liz, who played piano. And then she performed the Irlandaise movement and I accompanied her on the piano.

Playing in the orchestra for my high school musicals was a lot of fun too.

Do you get nervous during a performance?
Rarely during a performance unless I'm anticipating a really hard passage that has given me trouble. Sometimes a little bit before but not too often anymore.

How do you handle mistakes?
I try not to roll my eyes.

What advice would you give new flutists?
Is this the place for the famous "How do you get to Carnegie Hall?" line? Practice, practice, practice. Okay, seriously, yes practice but enjoy it. The flute is such a beautiful instrument and with a little bit of work, you can sound really good. It doesn't take much time to get a clear tone and that's the key. Speed and technique will come over time but if you sound airy, then it's not pretty to me.

What advice would you give new flute choir members?
We were all the newby once. Most of us hadn't picked up our flute in X number of years before we joined the group either. You get your chops back quicker than you think. We don't bite.

What do you practice? How often?
Oh, I'm so not the person to answer this question. I have always been a horrible practice-r and sadly, the same holds true today. I practice when I really need to, otherwise I learn it every Thursday at flute choir (sorry Patty, don't hate me).

How do you balance your music with other obligations - mate, children, job?
That's the $64,000 question. I a very busy (read: overextended) person. I'm a mom to three girls, I work in freelance TV production, which can be very long hours, and I have lots of other interests so I don't sleep much. But I do my best to clear out my Thursday nights for flute choir. It's my "me" time and generally it's my de-stress time. That was a big bonus for me in college that the four hours a week I played in Symphonic Band was a relaxing time for me and my brain. I just do my best to make flute choir a priority. It works most of the time.

Is there anything else you'd like to add about the flute, flute choir...?
I think I've covered it all but from the moment I found the Culver City Flute Choir, I found a group of people who were nice, fun, creative and inspiring. I've learned so much about the flute and all the things that are associated with flutes and flute playing. I never would have known about the National Flute Association and their annual conventions (I've been to three of them, and looking forward to Anaheim in 2010). I never would have been motivated to buy and learn to play the alto and bass flutes. I never would have known about upgrading to my current model of flute and I dream one day of getting a gold flute. Flute choir has brought all that to me and I love every minute of it.

Check out the music mentioned in this profile:
Claude Bolling, Suite for Jazz Flute and Piano: Sentimentale

sentimentale -

Irlandaise:

Irlandaise - Claude Bolling

Meet the flute choir: Sandy

2009-12-03T11:32:00.000-08:00

When and why did you start playing the flute?

On my 50th birthday, I decided to "bite the bullet," so to speak. My first flute was $125.00.

My first teacher was Shelley Thomas (who played with the Joe Liggins group). In some schools where I lived, not all children were treated fairly when it came to playing certain instruments. Wind instruments, in particular. I was [determined] to have my own instrument. Sadly, this sort of stuff still exists. Anyway, I promised myself that before I died, I would own the best flute that my money could afford.

Have you played in any other flute choirs or ensembles? Where else do (have) you perform(ed)?

In 1989, I joined the Culver City Flute Choir, because I wanted a chance to prove myself that I could improve my ensemble skills.

Presently I am playing with Culver City Flute Choir, Sr. Orchestra at the Westside Jewish Community Center, Get Your Chops Back Flute Choir, and High Flutin'. In these groups, I have the opportunity to play my C flute, bass flute, alto flute, and sometimes my piccolo.

Do you play any other instruments?

My primary instrument is piano. My first piano, which barely worked, was given to my parents for me. It didn't take my parents a long time to hunt down a piano teacher. I remember that at age five, I played on this very old, upright piano. Because I was so talented, my parents thought that I deserved a better instrument, so my mother and I rode the public transportation to Grinnell Bros. downtown Detroit piano store. I was allowed to play on as many pianos as I wanted until I found one that I liked. One day when I got home from school, a brand new baby grand piano had been delivered. 61 years later, that same piano is still in our family. Today, my piano is a Baldwin 6000 Concert Vertical which I have maintained twice yearly. My new piano teacher is Nora Chiang.

From fourth grade through high school, I played double bass. Taking that instrument to music events was an adventure, to say the least. WHEW! I never stopped taking piano lessons.

Is your family musical? Describe your family's musical interests and abilities.

It's fair to say that although the total of eight of my brother and sisters took music lessons (violin, viola, cello, double bass, clarinet, trumpet, French horn), only two of us had a real passion to pursue our dreams: my brother, Ron Carter (Jazz Bassist), and I. When we were "little," he and I would perform on piano/cello duets.

Who is your biggest fan?

My family members are my great fans. My parents always sat proudly either in a concert hall setting, or in someone's living room, or wherever there was a piano, with their chests stuck out. They loved listening and watching me.

Which famous musicians do you admire (doesn't have to just be flutists!)? Why?

Obviously I admire my brother, Ron Carter. Anyone who can transition from being a classically trained cellist to jazz pro is amazing (at least in my book).

Do you get nervous during a performance?

Group performances don't make me nervous. Piano recitals make me nervous because I get so involved in what I am doing that I end up relying on my muscle memory to save me. I always want my performances to be perfect so I stress myself out. I learn my music so well that I manage to keep going, no matter what. Eventually, only the composer, my piano teacher and I know where the "hiccups" were.

How do you handle mistakes?

There's no magic in doing well: practice, practice, practice is the only key. Of course, finding a more than competent teacher is important.

What advice would you give new flute choir members?

Every flute member was NEW to the group, one at a time.

What do you practice? How often?

I practice my flute every day: scales, long tones, sight reading, orchestral excerpts for my warm ups. I spend no less than 2 hours a day. Since I am involved with four flute groups, I have lots of music to learn. On the piano, I practice hands and fingers strengthening, lots of technique, scales, sight reading, repertoire: no less than 3 hours daily.

I'm really strict about my piano practicing. From 6:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. daily, sometimes longer, depending upon what my recital demands are.

How do you balance your music with other obligations - mate, children, job?

It must be said that, I'm retired, thus fitting practice time into my days is easier now than it was when our children were little. I do however, need to do some balancing of my time, that's why I "hit the floor running" to the piano! I need to get that much out of the way (as it were). MY HUSBAND IS SUCH A GOOD SPORT... He understands my obsession, and enjoys the learning processes.

Meet the Flute Choir: Shannon

2009-11-25T08:34:00.000-08:00

I've asked flute choir members to answer a few questions about themselves, so that our fans and readers could get to know us a little better. The first profile will be on our long-time member, Shannon.

When and why did you start playing the flute?

6 months before starting Junior High (7th grade)

When did you join the flute choir? Why?
In 1993 Patty asked me if I want to play with the group.
[Note from Irene: Shannon and I, as well as a few other members of the flute choir, study/studied with Patty Sikorkski, the leader of our flute choir, as our private teacher.]

Have you played in any other flute choirs or ensembles? Where else do (have) you perform(ed)?
Flute choir - no. But I have played with LA Jr. Phil for 6 months and Meremblum Pathfinder (1-1/2 years) and Pioneer (1 year) Orchestras.

Do you play any other instruments?
Played piano on and off since 6 years old, played violin for 6 weeks during summer school, and play hand bells and hand chimes at church (on and off since 6th grade). Also play the piccolo.

Is your family musical?
My mom sings, my dad is very tone deaf, my brother played the piano for about a year, and my brother played the clarinet growing up.

Describe your family's musical interests and abilities.
I am the only person who really has any musical abilities. But my family loves classical music.

Who is your biggest fan?
Hmmmm...

Which famous musicians do you admire (doesn't have to just be flutists!)? Why?
Hmmmm too many to name.

Who was your first teacher? Other teachers?
Mi Jhung Choi, Gus Ehrman and Patty Skorski.

What are your fondest musical memories?
I loved when I played with the Meremblum Orchestras. We had concerts all over Los Angeles! We also camped every year at Griffith's Park!

Do you get nervous during a performance?
Sometimes...

How do you handle mistakes?
Practice more so that I can be better next time.

What advice would you give new flutists?
Keep practicing! Practice makes it perfect!

What do you practice? How often?
I was practicing almost everyday at work until I started school few weeks ago! I usually practice lesson stuff and flute choir.

How do you balance your music with other obligations - mate, children, job?
I am very lucky to have a job where I can practice my flute!

Is there anything else you'd like to add about the flute, flute choir...?
I love playing the flute!

Concert!

2009-11-21T08:17:00.000-08:00

Our holiday concert will take place Thursday, December 3, 2009, at 8:00 p.m.

We hope you can join us!

When:
December 3, 2009, 8:00 p.m.
Refreshments served after the concert

Where:
Farragut Elementary School
10820 Farragut Drive
Culver City, CA 90230

Map:

View Larger Map

In case you needed a reminder...

2009-11-04T15:23:00.000-08:00

Please: never leave your flute in the car!

(Click on the title of today's post and you should be taken to a current news story about a $30,000 Muramatsu flute that was stolen recently.)

Flute Fest 2009

2009-10-27T14:16:00.000-07:00

Patty received an email the other day about Flute Fest 2009, and asked me to share with the flute choir members. I thought I'd go one better (I'm such a smartypants) and post the information here, too.

Here you go:

Flute Fest 2009 - November 14, 2009
Hosted by Dr. John Barcellona and the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music
8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
California State University, Long Beach - Music Department

Admission is $25

"A day of classes and clinics, including:

Master Teacher Jill Felber: Extreme Makeover - Flute Edition
Dr. John Barcellona - All Los Angeles Flute Choir Reading Session
Suzanne Buerkle - Wake Up with Floga! Yoga for the flutist
Rebecca Kleinmann - Jazz Flute and Improv Master Class
Kate Prestia-Schaub - Piccolo Master Class
Flute instrument and accessory vendors, including master flute maker, David Straubiner"

You can email flutecat@gmail .com for more information. Please don't email CCFC - this is all I've got on this event.

Meet the Flute Choir: Irene

2009-10-25T08:32:00.000-07:00

When and why did you start playing the flute?
I started playing the flute in the 2nd or 3rd grade.

When did you join the flute choir? Why?
I joined the flute choir when I was a senior in high school.

Have you played in any other flute choirs or ensembles? Where else do (have) you perform(ed)?
No other flute choirs, unfortunately! I played in the high school marching band; the high school orchestra; the Los Angeles Junior Philharmonic; and I have performed at City Garage Theatre in "The Gertrude Stein Project," and "The Bacchae." I also play with a classical guitarist, Christopher Hundley. Most recently I performed "The Emperor and the Bird of Paradise" (for flute and narrator) at a special performance at City Garage with my friend, David Frank.

Do you play any other instruments?
I play the piccolo, and bass or alto flute when someone is kind enough to loan me one!

Describe your family's musical interests and abilities.
Both my parents love music; my sister dabbles with the acoustic guitar once in awhile. One of my brothers played the trumpet for a short time. My husband is a drummer, and has played in punk bands (Magnolia Thunderpussy, Pipsqueak), free jazz groups (Halfway to Cleveland), and most recently, in Melic Sub Rosa (avant-rock improvisation) and Suffering Luna (I have no idea what classification this music falls into!).

Which famous musicians do you admire (doesn't have to just be flutists!)? Why?
Flutists: Ian Clarke, Paul Edmund Davies, Gary Schocker, Mimi Stillman... Also, the Marine Corp Band - my husband and I saw them play this year in Washington, D.C., and I think they're wonderful.

Other musicians, bands: The Police, Stewart Copeland, Melvins, Radiohead, Elvis Costello, Talking Heads, Pearl Jam, David Bowie, lots of 70s and 80s stuff... I love rock and roll, punk, pop, you name it.

Who was your first teacher? Other teachers?
In elementary school, my teacher was Kent Gregory. In middle school and high school band, Joe Nazzaretta. My private teacher was Patty Sikorski. I have had the good luck to sometimes get to play with Patty and Joe a few times for gigs. They're both excellent flutists, and I learn so much from them when we play together.

What are your fondest musical memories?
Marching band was a lot of fun, but I was thrilled to be onstage at City Garage. Also, I very much enjoyed playing (twice in performance) the William Tell Overture on piccolo with the Culver City Flute Choir. The first time, because it's so much fun (the piccolo gets to fly!), and the second time, because my dad had commented on it the first time around (he said he really liked it) and actually requested it a couple of years later.

Do you get nervous during a performance?
Absolutely.

How do you handle mistakes?
At the moment they occur, I try to forget it and move on, but sometimes just thinking that - "Don't worry about it!" - is enough of a distraction. I take it hard when I think I messed up.

What advice would you give new flutists?
Listen! My favorite part of taking lessons will always be sight-reading duets with Patty. Trying to match her and just keep up was inspirational and a huge part of my development as a flutist. Just listening to her play is educational.

What advice would you give new flute choir members?
Relax!

What do you practice? How often?
I am definitely a "have gig will practice" flutist. I love to play, but I'm pretty lazy. During flute choir seasons, I practice a lot more than usual but not as much as I guess I should.

How do you balance your music with other obligations - mate, children, job?
My husband has always been very supportive of my playing. He has an excellent ear, and has taught me a lot about music.

Is there anything else you'd like to add about the flute, flute choir...?
We have so much fun! Check us out!

Holiday Concert

2009-10-13T17:13:00.000-07:00

Save the date! Our holiday concert is coming up soon! If you'd like to join our email list, please send your name (first and last) and email address to CCFC.Info@gmail.com.

Culver City Flute Choir Holiday Concert
Thursday, December 3, 2009
8:00 p.m.

Farragut Elementary School
10820 Farragut Drive, Cafeteria
Culver City, CA 90230

Flute choir starts tonight!

2009-09-17T08:24:00.000-07:00

Tonight's the first night, so if you haven't registered yet, be sure to get yourself on in to the Adult School office, call or go online and do it!

See you all tonight,
Irene

Fall quarter

2009-09-05T09:01:00.000-07:00

Hello, everyone!

I hope you all enjoyed your summer! Fall quarter for flute choir begins in two weeks, on Thursday, September 17th. You can view the fall brochure, here.

We meet for 10 Thursdays. No class September 24th, October 1st, or November 26th. The cost of the class is $115.

Registration at the Adult School began on August 31st. Please contact the Adult School to register. You can register in person, on the telephone, or on the Internet. Here's all the info you'll need:

Culver City Adult School
4909 Overland Avenue
Culver City, CA 90230
(310) 842-4300

If you have questions about the Flute Choir, you can contact me at CCFC.Info@gmail.com. If you're wondering about the level of our group or have specific questions related to playing, I'll forward your question to our conductor, Patty Sikorski.

I hope to see you soon,
Irene

A tribute to Willie Odis Carter

2009-08-19T18:47:00.000-07:00

Culver City Flute Choir lost one of its dearest supporters this month with the passing of Willie Odis Carter.

Mrs. Carter was the mother of our long-time member, Sandy Nixon. The flute choir played many years each December at Mrs. Carter's retirement home as part of our annual "southland tour," and we will miss her encouragement and fondness for us and our playing. These concerts usually included a solo piano performance by her daughter Sandy, and Mrs. Carter's enjoyment of both the flute choir and Sandy's playing made these concerts fun events for all of us.

Some of us attended her memorial service on Saturday, August 15, and I was particularly touched by Sandy's memories about her mother's dedication to her musical studies. All of us should be so lucky to have someone so devoted to our music.

We'll miss you.

Sandy, we're thinking of you.

Willie Odis Carter
January 19, 1910 - August 8, 2009

Donations in Mrs. Carter's name to City of Children, and Ethiopia, can be sent care of:

Crenshaw Church of Christ
2719 W. Martin Luther King Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90008

Click on the title to read Mrs. Carter's obituary as it appears in the Los Angeles Times.

Post Convention Interview with Flute Choir Member: Shannon

2009-08-19T10:51:00.000-07:00

Here are Shannon's answers to the questions about the flute convention.

Thanks, Shannon! Can't wait to see (and hear) your new purchases in the fall!

Q: Was this your first time attending the flute convention? If no, what keeps you interested in returning? If yes, will you go again?

A: I've attended every single convention since 2000. I love to go every year. I consider it my vacation every year. I will definitely go again.

Q: Were there any performances that stood out for you in particular? Who was the performer and what did they play?

A: My favorite parts of the convention were:

1. Friday morning's Record Breaking Event. We broke China's record for having the Largest Flutist Ensemble (see previous posts for the video and the article).
2. Gala Concert with James Galway was unbelievable. I loved every single piece that was played by James and Jeanne Galway.
3. Closing Ceremony was one of the best Closing Ceremonies I've been too. I loved the fifers and Quintessenz.

Q: What special thing, if anything, did you buy in the exhibit hall?

A: I came home with a new cleaning cloth, polish cloth, stand light, flute stand, flute flag, pad paper, and Claire de Lune (sheet music). I also put an alto flute on layaway.

Q: What fun, non-convention thing did you do while in New York?

A: After the convention was over, Judy and I took a ferry over to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Afterwards, we met up with Patty for some Thai food, a massage, dessert and little bit of shopping. I loved New York (except for 6 hours hours of flight delay getting there)!!! I wish I would've stayed couple of more days to catch a show or something....

Post Convention Interview with Flute Choir Member: Judy

2009-08-19T07:18:00.000-07:00

I sent some email questions to the ladies from the flute choir who attended the flute convention in New York last year. Here are Judy's answers.

Thanks, Judy! It sounds like you had a good time. See you in flute choir next month!

(Note: I will link to the video and if I can, audio items that Judy refers to, later today.)

Q: Was this your first time attending the flute convention? If no, what keeps you interested in returning? If yes, will you go again?

A: This was my second flute convention (technically, it's the third, but the first was very long ago and I only stayed for one day). I really enjoyed the Kansas City convention last year, and have mixed feelings about the NYC convention. I definitely plan to attend the Anaheim convention next year.

Q: Were there any performances that stood out for you in particular? Who was the performer and what did they play?

A: JAMES GALWAY!!!! His performance and master class are among the most memorable moments in my flute history. He’s a very entertaining personality and very endearing to me. He played:

(1) Gaubert, Third Sonata. Never heard this before. It is beautiful (want to learn this one).
(2) Gaubert, Nocturne & Allegro Scherzando. Wonderful.
(3) Debussy, En Bateau. A gem!
(4) Chaminade, Concertina
(4) Doppler, Rigoletto Fantasy
(5) Briccialdi, Carnival of Venice
(6) Morlacchi, Il Pastore Svizzero. I recognized the tune but not the name
(7) Bazzini, Le Ronde des Lutins. Ditto
(8) Taffanel, Grande Fantasie Sur Mignon. Breathtaking.

and 2 or 3 encore numbers.

QUINTESSENZ – a wonderful quintet from Germany. In addition to a ½ hour afternoon performance, they were the final act of a long closing ceremony (4:30 to 8:00pm). They were one of the highest points of the Convention for me and many others – long standing ovations. Their arrangements and playing were so unusually beautiful. Their arrangements are not published yet. They did Mendelssohn’s Midsummer Night’s Dream; Debussy’s Passepied from Suite Bergamasque; Ganne’s Andente et Scherzo (another most unusual arrangement played to perfection); Ravel, from Miroirs, Alborada del Gracioso. They have a few CD’s out and can be seen on YouTube.

ADRIANNE GREENBAUM with fiddler, bass, and cimbelon – klezmerflute.com. A great joyous sound! Loved the performance at Closing Ceremony. Can also be seen on YouTube.

PAUL EDMUND-DAVIES (principle flutist w/London Symphony Orchestra for 20 years) was also a highlight for me. His playing, of course, is astounding and he also has a very entertaining personality.

I saw/heard only half of Ian Clarke’s Thursday morning concert. I enjoyed it, but was a bit distracted due to jet lag from the horrible traveling schedule. Also fell asleep during the Thursday evening Gala (didn’t feel very Gala). There were many many performances and workshops I regret that I missed. Too much to choose from. Missed all the late evening cabaret jazz sessions this time. Temps were in the 90’s. Too too hot to enjoy mid-town Manhattan. The noise, traffic and hordes of people in Times Square, where the convention took place, were almost overwhelming to me.

Q: What fun, non-convention thing did you do while in New York?

A: Shannon and I took a ferry to Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Museum – very interesting (and air-conditioned). The last evening and on Monday, Shannon and I met Patty and had a fun time – we found a small deli/restaurant then walked for a bit. Shannon and I also dinner with Ronna the first evening, then other evenings (when the temps cooled a bit) after the gala concerts, we took longer walks to explore the area.

Record Breaking Event - NPR Story

2009-08-18T21:20:00.000-07:00

Click on the title.

World Record Breaking Flute Event

2009-08-18T21:04:00.000-07:00

Click on the title to view the "World Record Breaking Flute Event" video. Oh... and if you look close enough, you can see me in the video.

Photos from the flute convention

2009-08-18T18:44:00.000-07:00

Photos from flute convention

2009-08-17T22:43:00.000-07:00

I received some awesome photos from Ronna, one of our flute choir members, taken from the convention. Hopefully she'll send along some more information for those of us who had to stay home soon!

I want to play that contrabass, too!

Photos by Ronna

Fall dates!

2009-08-10T10:44:00.000-07:00

Mark your calendars, everyone, the fall quarter for flute choir will begin on Thursday, September 17, 2009.

Registration through Culver City Adult School starts on Monday, August 31st.

Concert photos

2009-08-05T21:18:00.000-07:00

I finally uploaded the (blurry) photos Patrick took at the last concert (June 25) before the camera battery died.

(Pauly, see what happens when you don't come to a concert? Disaster.)

This has to be the most awkward photo of a flutist, ever. What am I doing? Why did he take this picture in the first place? Gosh.

From a NY Times article about Mozart

2009-08-05T13:16:00.000-07:00

“At first we laughed at what seemed such pure gibberish, but his father then began to observe the most important matter, the notes and music,” Schachtner recounted. “He stared long at the sheet, and then tears, tears of joy and wonder, fell from his eyes. ‘It is so very difficult that no one could play it,’ Leopold said. And Wolfgang replied: ‘That’s why it’s a concerto. You must practice it till you can get it right.’ ”

Wow, the kid was 7 or 8. What were you doing at that age (Mozart had already started composing at age 5; it's not his youth that is so surprising in this article, it's that these two pieces were only just discovered)? I'm pretty sure I was playing a game called "Dog and Cat" with my best friend, Jeremy. It involved one of us pretending to be "Dog" and the other pretending to be "Cat," and barking and meowing at each other as indicated by our respective roles. Oh, yes: we were thespians.

Click on the title of today's post to read the entire article. Or you might consider taking out your flute and practicing. Maybe some Mozart!

From a Los Angeles Times magazine article about Gustavo Dudamel, the new conductor of the Los Angeles Philharmonic

2009-08-03T17:00:00.001-07:00

"For me, it’s very important that musicians can feel. That’s why I say to them some image, or I want the blood, or I want the sound of the meat. It’s feelings, and this is music." - Gustavo Dudamel

I love this quote.

Please click on the title of today's post to be taken directly to the article.

Flute convention 2009: New York!

2009-08-03T11:30:00.001-07:00

I'm not going to the flute convention this year. I've been to many of them in the past! This year it's in New York, and as exciting as New York is (I love it there!), it just didn't work out. Also, as much as I love both the flute convention and New York, it didn't seem fair to leave Patrick at home while I make yet another solo trip there. I want us to go together. Next year's convention is scheduled for Anaheim, which is much closer to home (no hotel room required!), and I intend to drag him to at least one evening's concert.

The convention begins next Thursday, August 13. Are you going? If so, what are you interested in seeing/hearing/playing? I've been checking out the schedule of events (the NFA posts the schedule on their website, which you can access via the right side -->), and these are the things I would be looking forward to:

United States Military Academy Band at West Point - lecture and recital. I love military bands!
Gary Schocker - Showcase. Gary and his socks are always entertaining; he's a great performer. I've played a few of his flute duets: challenging and fun.
Workshop (and the next day, a concert) with (hunky) Ian Clarke. Ian Clarke was the heartthrob for me in San Diego. We saw him play at the Friday night concert and I fell in love (with his music, of course). I talked with him the next day in the exhibit hall, where he attempted to teach me something, and I promptly forgot how to play an "A." I am such a dork. Later, with my own flute, I went to a workshop he gave on advanced techniques where I hopefully demonstrated my ability to actually play notes.
Performance by Carol Wincenc - she's beautiful and thrilling to see. I love her playing.
Trevor Wye's performance of "50 Variations on the Carnival of Venice" for 60 flutes, which I've seen 2 or 3 times already. He's amazing.
New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art will host a special presentation August 14 at 2:30 p.m. for convention attendees. The museum’s musical instrument collection is closed during August due to roof repairs, but flutes will be taken out of storage for this private showing by Associate Curator Herbert Heyde. - This sounds fun and interesting.
Make history! Join Sir James Galway and the NFA in an attempt to break the Guinness World Record™ for World’s Largest Flute Ensemble! Let’s shatter the world record of 1,701 participants, set in Tuebingen, Germany, on December 22, 2007. In commemoration of his 70th birthday this year, Sir James commissioned a medley of his favorite works, including “Danny Boy,” to be performed at the event. - This sounds like a lot of fun! I downloaded the music (if I were going, I'd be on flute IV). Maybe those of us not going to the convention can get together and have a little quartet on this one.
Friday Gala concert: I always look forward to these concerts; Paul Edmund-Davies is one of the performers. I just did "The Emperor and the Bird of Paradise," which was composed for him by Alan Ridout, at City Garage a couple of weeks ago, and I've heard him play before. He's great. They usually post the actual programs for the concerts in the schedule you receive at the convention; the online listing (so far) doesn't show what pieces will be played. I'm pretty sure he won't do "The Emperor and the Bird of Paradise," but it would be nice to hear him play anything. He'll also be in recital the next day.
James Galway will be featured at the Saturday Gala concert, which should be exciting.
On Saturday, there will be a concert called "New York, Electrified," which features flute duos with electronics. Sounds intriguing!

Anyway, this is just what caught my eye for Thursday, Friday and some of Saturday! There are lots of flute choir showcases, workshops, recitals that are too numerous to list here. And of course the exhibit hall is always fun and a great way to pass the time in between events. I'd head straight for the Powell booth and play as many expensive and beautiful flutes and piccolos I could get my hands on.

Even though I'm not going, I'm starting to get excited for my friends who are! I hope some of you send some reports or photos to share with the rest of us. Meanwhile, I'll start saving up for next year...

Ashokan Farewell, by Jay Ungar

2009-08-01T22:40:00.000-07:00

As part of our last concert, Culver City Flute Choir performed "Ashokan Farewell," by Jay Ungar. It's pretty.

Enjoy!

2 Guys 1 Flute | J.S. Bach Badineri

2009-07-23T23:22:00.001-07:00

For those of you on Facebook, the NFA has a group page on FB that you should all join. Today, they asked for your favorite flute videos on youtube. Here's what I posted and thought you'd all enjoy it too.

Julie

NPR story about a classical flutist

2009-07-22T13:54:00.000-07:00

We heard this story on the radio the other day and thought it was really interesting. It's about flutist Tod Brody and how he's turned hard work into a career. There are some sound clips so be sure to listen and not just read the transcript. The guy is really talented.

Good luck to him, maybe he'll get some work out of this story.

I can think of another freelance flutist right here in Culver City (no, of course I'm not talking about myself) who might need some work, too, so if you need one, contact me!

A message from Irene Palma

2009-07-21T10:51:00.000-07:00

Hi, everyone (is there an echo in here or is it just me?),

If it is just me, I take full responsibility - after creating this blog a few years ago, I promptly forgot all about it. However, I'd like to get this thing back up and current again, and I hope you'll come back soon.

So who am I, and where have I been? I was a private student of Patty Sikorski's, and in or around 1990 or 1991, with her encouragement and awesome training, I started playing with Culver City Flute Choir. I've been a member ever since. I've done some semi-professional playing around the Los Angeles area, mostly with Patty or as a guest/member of City Garage theater in Santa Monica. And I'm the one who sends out all the email notices about concerts and other information to CCFC flutists and friends, so if you want to contact Patty or find out more about the flute choir or our concerts, start with me and I'll get you pointed in the right direction.

I intend to update the information contained in this blog with more regularity. You can also find us on Facebook (Friends of Culver City Flute Choir; check back for link), or email the flute choir directly.

What's a flute choir? A flute choir is like any choir: we're a group of flutists (the size of our group ranges anywhere from about seven to up to thirteen flutists) who perform music either written specifically for flute choir or other music that has been edited to fit our instrumentation. Our very talented members play piccolo, C flute, alto flute, bass flute, and contra-bass flute. All these voices make for a layered and interesting mix.

What's Culver City Flute Choir? As you can see from the text at the top of the page, Culver City Flute Choir is a community-based group that operates thanks to Culver City Adult School. There are no auditions to join; all that is required is to register and the ability to play the flute, read music, show up to rehearsals, and a desire to play. We meet for about 10 weeks, and during all school quarters except the summer, put on an informal concert for our families and friends. During the winter holiday season, we often have two additional performances, for Lamp Community, located in Downtown Los Angeles; and at a local retirement home. If you haven't played your flute since high school or college, you're not alone! Many of our members start out this way, and while that first night might feel a little uncomfortable, rest assured and know that it definitely gets easier, and a lot more fun.

Currently we're taking a bit of a break from concertizing and are meeting for informal reading sessions. There is so much to gain from sight-reading and playing with friends! The fall quarter is just around the corner, and I will be posting more information about that as it becomes available from the Adult School.

Thanks for your interest and for stopping by, and, if you haven't done so in awhile, get out your flute and play a little!

Hope to see you soon,
Irene

From an LA Times article about Nathaniel Ayers

2009-07-13T09:24:00.000-07:00

Steve Lopez from the Los Angeles Times accompanied Nathaniel Ayers to San Francisco, where he was honored by a national organization dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by mental illness.

A few years ago, at one our Christmas concerts at LAMP Community, the flute choir was lucky to meet Mr. Ayers, and play with him. I'm glad to read these updates from Steve Lopez, and that things seem to be going well for Mr. Ayers.

Click on the title of the post to read the entire article.

From a story in the LA Times about really old flutes

2009-06-25T09:20:00.000-07:00

It so happens that the Hohle Fels flute was uncovered in sediments a few feet away from the carved figurine of a busty, nude woman, also around 35,000 years old, noted Dr. Conard and his co-authors, Susanne C. Münzel of Tübingen and Maria Malina of the Heidelberg Academy of Sciences and Humanities. That discovery was announced in May by Dr. Conard.

Stone age flutists were hot! Not much has changed since...

Click on the title of today's post to read the entire (much less salacious) article.

20th Anniversary Concert - June 2007

2007-06-22T17:47:00.000-07:00

Welcome, and Happy New Year!

2006-12-31T11:41:00.000-08:00

Welcome to you! We're glad that you found us, and hope you will come again. This blog has been created to provide information about Culver City Flute Choir: who we are, what we do, and when we perform.

Upcoming posts will include photos, video, and audio of our group. More to come, soon!

Thanks for checking us out! Wishing you a very happy new year,
Culver City Flute Choir