Future of the Flute Weekend

A Weekend in the Future of the Flute and Its Music

with Robert Dick

 

In this two-day class, we’ll dive deep into the “why’s” and “how’s” of the art of performance and of understanding how the flutist and flute actually work, and work together.  Robert will show how to use the inner voice to free expression and unlock creativity.  All this will lead to a new understanding of the flute and its sonic possibilities – and a new understanding of the meaning of making music.

 

Day 1:

Morning Lecture/Demonstration:  An explanation of the acoustics of the flute and the flute/flutist resonance system, particularly "throat tuning".  Practical application of this knowledge in tone production, dynamic and timbre range.  Discussion of the inter-relationship of traditional and extended techniques.  Explanation of multiphonics, glissandi, microtones, whispertones and lots more.

 

Robert will present methods to learn and practice these sonorities and techniques and how to apply this practice to contemporary and traditional repertoire.  The first place you’ll hear dramatic improvement is in your “regular” flute playing!

 

Afternoon masterclass -- student performances.

 

Repertoire:  Music by Robert Dick

        Lookout

        Flying Lessons Volumes I and II

Paganini/Dick -- Caprices in b minor and e minor 

                                transcribed for the multiphonic flutist

        Afterlight

        Fish Are Jumping

        Flames Must not Encircle Sides

        Air is the Heaviest Metal

 

        Other repertoire is possible, too – upon Robert’s approval in advance.

 

– Evening Concert –

Robert plays his compositions and improvises.  Guest artist: flutist Caleb Hathaway

 

Day 2:

Morning Lecture/Demonstration:  Q&A following up on yesterday’s work. 

 

CIRCULAR BREATHING: You Can Do It – and Why You Should.   Robert will present his step by step method to learn and master this enormously useful technique.  He’ll demonstrate its use in classical music, orchestral repertoire and contemporary music and improvisation.

 

How to record yourself:  Caleb Hathaway, an experienced recording engineer, will demonstrate several approaches to self-recording. 

 

Afternoon masterclass -- student performances.

 

Repertoire: Music by Robert Dick and 20th century “classics” for unaccompanied flute by Varèse, Berio, Fukushima and Takemitsu

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