4th Annual Timber Flute Festival
June 20 - June 25, 2010
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Elkins will come alive with the sound of flutes at the RCCAC the week of June 20 through June 25. The festival, which will bring artist/teachers and flutists to Elkins, West Virginia, is devoted to flutes made of wood, hence the old Irish distinction for such instruments, the “Timber Flute.”
This is West Virginia’s first and only festival celebrating the wooden flute and one of just a few such festivals nationwide. According to Dr. Wendell Dobbs, Festival Director, “This festival presents a unique crossing of the line between classical and traditional flute music.”
Who should come to the festival
The Timber Flute Festival is for musicians who would like to explore the history, practice, and creation of wooden flutes. A series of classes, ensemble coachings and evening events will be offered to increase the skill of the experienced player and provide an introduction for the beginner. The festival will focus on several arts associated with wooden flutes: the one-keyed flute (Baroque/Classical Eras) to the eight-keyed flute (Late Classical/Romantic), Irish traditional music, the Native American flute and fifes. Each day will include a morning session dedicated to a broad experience with each of the traditions followed by an afternoon session for in-depth study of a chosen tradition.
Festival participants can move from one tradition to another or focus solely on one tradition. Players of modern metal flutes are also welcome to attend. Teachers will help you adapt your modern instrument to the playing of Irish traditional music or Baroque music and provide opportunities for you to experiment with wooden instruments. “This is a non-competitive atmosphere,” Dobbs explained, “and we provide hands-on instruction that is not superficial.”
Festival teachers
Teachers for the Timber Flutes Festival are stars in their chosen areas. They include Wendell Dobbs, Colin St. Martin, Ron Warren and Grey Larsen. Janice Torres and Cindy Kallet will lead workshops on flute accompaniment. Renowned flutemaker John Gallagher will be on hand to explain the construction of fine wooden flutes.
Tuition
Tuition for the week is $350 if booked before June 1 and $400 after June 1. For returning students, the registration fee is only $300 before the June 1 deadline. Also, two students signing up at the same time can take advantage of the $300 discounted fee if they register before the deadline.
Sponsors
The fourth annual Timber Flute Festival is sponsored by the Myles Family Foundation, Myles Lumber Company, the City of Elkins and the Randolph County Community Arts Center.
For more information call 304-637-2355.