Flute Academy

Our next flutist of the week is long time member and lover of all flutes: .mcanallen

Here's our interview with her.

Share a fun fact
I also do improv comedy, improv and flute choir are tied for my favorite thing.

How long have you been playing flute?
I started in fourth grade, so about 23 years.

What's your favorite flute (c, picc, etc)?
Honestly penny whistle, I've been playing that the longest.

What's your favorite piece you've played (choir or not)?
Hungarian Pastoral Fantasy by Franz Doppler. I played it for my senior recital in college and it's been stuck in my head ever since.

What advice you would give to people who are interested in starting flute?
Try all sorts of different kinds of flutes! You might find something you really love like pan flutes, penny whistles, or Native American flutes.

Any news or excitement you want to share?
The International Low Flutes Fest in DC in April! I've never been before and am super excited!

Please join us this Saturday, March 23 at 11:00am for our 2024 Spring concert! Our live stream link will be TBD. Free reception to follow.

We are so excited for this incredible flute workshop hosted by Dan Parasky this Saturday.

Our flutist of the week is Gay Kahkonen, our very own composer in residence! Here is our interview with her.
Share a fun fact:
My current dog, Fennec, doesn't mind flute playing. She is the only dog I've owned who doesn't mind!
How long have you been playing flute?
Since I was 5 years old.
What's your favorite flute (c, picc, etc)?
All of them! I usually play Bass in choir, I normally play C for practicing, but I also like Alto. I'm not a big fan of playing picc, but I love writing for it.
What's your favorite piece you've played (choir or not)?
Of my own pieces, I liked playing Romanian Dance the best.
What advice you would give to people who are interested in starting flute?
Flute is the most beautiful instrument. It sounds like the voices of angels. Also, the Pittsburgh flute community is very friendly and welcoming. There is room for players of all levels of experience.
Any news or excitement you want to share?
One of my pieces will be premiered at the International Low Flutes festival in DC this April by a group from Michigan.

We are so excited to see you tomorrow for our first rehearsal of the new year!