FAQ
All participants may listen to any classes regardless of their chosen option. All our options emphasise and encourage participation, in group playing, flute choir, technique classes, ensembles and individual lessons. Players option has more ensemble playing and Performers option includes a performance in a masterclass and a concert. The Masterclass option is designed for postgraduates, young professional players or advanced students about to enter or already at conservatoires or music colleges. Study is entirely in your Masterclass group and does not include individual lessons. Look at the comparison table and if in doubt please contact us to discuss the most suitable option for you.
Each day begins with a pre-breakfast warm-up followed by, typically, a technique class, 2-3 masterclasses, flute choir, coached ensemble, private lessons (depending on which option you choose) and an evening concert. We have special workshops which differ each year, for example on aspects of stage performance, breathing, dealing with nerves, Baroque dance, or jazz techniques. The timetable is very full, with activities from 8am to 10pm daily for the full 6 days.
We welcome all flute enthusiasts, and pride ourselves on our supportive and non-judgemental atmosphere. For flute choir and ensembles you will need to be able to play at around Grade 4-5 standard.
Our three levels of participation mean that you can choose the level which suits you best. The week is as challenging as you want to make it, and you will come away with ideas and techniques for improvement to keep you busy for months to come.
Never too old! If you enjoy playing the flute and learning from other flautists then you will have a great time. Our oldest participant was in their 70s and had been coming for 25 years. We are primarily an adult course, and the majority of our participants tend to be between 17-30 years old. However we are very keen to welcome people of all ages especially adult players who enjoy playing the flute and are looking for a week of intensive music making.
Don’t worry – you can borrow the music from your ensemble or flute choir during the week to practise, and there is always an easy enough part to play if sight-reading is not your strong point.
Not everyone has the chance to play regularly with a piano accompanist so these sessions are to work with your pianist who will coach you in the pieces you bring.
We are an international course and between the staff we can offer French, German, Czech and Japanese. We have welcomed people from many countries over the years, including Hong Kong, Japan, Sweden, Portugal, Norway, Spain, Italy, Iceland and Columbia. The chances are you will find someone who speaks your language.
Registration for all courses is 11.00 on Sunday 11th August 2024, with the first activity at 12.15. The course ends at about 22.00 after the last student concert on Friday 16th August 2024.
We try to accommodate requests, but it is not always possible to guarantee lessons with a particular teacher. Robert Winn will not be giving individual lessons and his teaching is entirely through masterclasses.
It is possible to attend as an active participant for part of the week, although this would not include playing in a masterclass or concert. As a part time or single day participant you can play in the flute choir, join an ensemble, and attend any other classes as an auditor. Please enquire about prices.
You will need to bring your prepared pieces together with their piano accompaniments. Music stands are provided but you may like to bring your own.
We are a mile or so north of Oxford city centre, and even closer to the Summertown area of north Oxford which has all the facilities you will need – shops, cafes, banks, supermarket.
Bed linen is provided but you will need to bring your own towels. Room facilities are clean but fairly basic so feel free to bring slippers, dressing gown, cushion or blanket etc if you would like to make it more homely!
Yes. See extra night options on booking form.
Yes, please ask and we will do our best to help.
St Edward’s is about 10-15 minutes by taxi from either Oxford train station or the central bus station; or you can get a bus: 2, S3 and 6 all go towards the school.
St Edward’s School, Woodstock Road, Oxford OX2 7NN.
https://www.stedwardsoxford.org/contact-us/how-to-get-here/