Whether you are part of an existing flute choir or want to start one, here is some information to help you define and grow this type of flute ensemble. From size, instrumentation, programming and performance locations to how to get started and what it takes to run and maintain a flute choir, you will find lots of information here. Whether this choir is part of your private flute studio, a local high school, or your community, the effort is definitely worth it!
When I wanted to add this ensemble performance experience to my studio, I actually offered three flute choirs. One choir was for younger players – about 6th grade through 8th grade, one was for High School students, 9th – 12th grade and one was for adults, open to flutists playing at any level. These were great fun and meant every student, their friends and any other community members could be part of a flute choir.
Currently, I have an adult choir, the Columbia River Community Flute Choir, which is under the umbrella of the Columbia River Music Conservatory. The association with our community music school allows our flute choir to have a large place to rehearse which includes music stands for rehearsals. Performance requests coming in to the school are also directed our way. As this type of performing group varies its venues throughout the community, it acts, in part, as an advertisement for your private studio or for the music school. More than that it is the proof of music education as a child, continuing through life.
In the beginning, be prepared to personally take on all aspects of running the flute choir. This means that you will wear many hats – music director, librarian, personnel manager, stage manager, and more. There will be many decisions to be made as you get things organized. Later, when things are running well, other members can be called on to help.
If you are thing about starting a flute choir, some of the topics below may be very helpful.