A full-day Teachers' Workshop on July 28, 2008 at the Suzuki-Orff School of Music will initiate a discussion on artistic standards for successful flute pedagogy. Prominent flute teachers Patricia George and Mary Stolper will facilitate a dialogue on flute pedagogy that examines fresh approaches to achieving today's stylistic and performance standards on the flute. Then, beginning in the fall, various aspects of flute pedagogy will be addressed in three-hour monthly seminars presented by eminent flute teachers. Some of the areas to be discussed in greater detail will include body mapping, practicing techniques, interpretive style, appropriate flute literature, and the business of running a flute studio. At the conclusion of the final session, the attendees receive a Certificate of Completion from the Chicago Flute Institute program. CFC members attend these sessions as a benefit of their membership at no additional cost.

The first session on July 28 will cover the basics of flute teaching and begin the dialogue regarding improved flute pedagogy. The Teachers' Workshop will include a report by Sam Gordon on the new technologies and advances in flute manufacturing. This discussion will help teachers understand the varying configurations possible when making recommendations to parents about the appropriate instrument for their child. Other topics to be discussed include proper alignment and balance of the flute, articulation, vibrato, technique, production of a ringing sound, and phrasing. The workshop will conclude with a flute choir reading session for attendees.

To enrich the teachers' experience, a prepared Handbook will provide information about flute technicians and music support industries. As the year progresses, more information can be included in this Handbook and it will become an important resource for flute instructors, whether they are beginning their educational careers or are seasoned teachers.

Pre-ordered box lunches will give participants time to eat together, share stories and become better acquainted.

Please join us on July 28 at 9:00 am. This program is free to Chicago Flute Club members. It will be held at the Suzuki-Orff School of Music, 1148 W. Chicago Avenue. This school is accessible at the Chicago stop on the Blue Line El, or CTA bus number 66. It is located just off the Eden's Expressway (route 94). There is ample metered street parking.