Connecting LA Flutists

[Ruth Kasckow]

Do you feel that the LA area is so big that it’s impossible to know what’s going on in the flute world? 

Have you ever wished there was a place for LA flutists to meet, share ideas, and publicize concerts and events? 

If you’re anything like me, your answer is yes. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard about a concert or a master class only to find out that it already happened and I missed it. Or times when I would have loved to discuss with another flutist teaching techniques, performance issues, flutes or new flute music. I’ve always wished there could be a meeting place for LA flutists, a community where other flutists get to know each other, share ideas, and find out about concerts and events. 

With that in mind, I decided to create LA Flute Network, a social network with the goal of Connecting the Greater Los Angeles Flute Community.  

Let me first say that for me “LA flutists” includes a huge area comprised of the counties of San Bernardino, Riverside, San Diego, Orange, Los Angeles, Ventura, and Santa Barbara. That’s a lot of flutists, and with that many flutists, there’s a lot going on. LA Flute Network is a place for the flute community to connect with each other and find out what is going on. The most important part of the network is the members. When you join, you are part of a large community of flutists. You create your own member profile where you can add your photos, videos and music. You can start a blog or respond to one. You can take part in a group forum. You can post your events. 

There are many areas of flute and music-making that interest me and I’m hoping we can start some discussions and share ideas. Some of the topics that interest me are flute teaching, flute technique, alternate fingerings, flute repertoire, newly published music, flute ensemble music, flute repair, music wellness, orchestra auditions, flute manufacturers, piccolo repertoire and technique, jazz flute, and performing opportunities. What interests you? You can start a discussion about any topic that interests you. 

I started a group on Music Wellness and Health for flutists. I am a Licensed Andover Educator which means I teach a course called “What Every Flutist Needs to Know About the Body” and teach body mapping. (www.bodymap.org) I would love to connect with other flutists and find out what they are doing in that area whether it’s Alexander Technique, Pilates, Yoga, Physical Therapy or something else. I want to start a discussion to see how pain and injury can be prevented and how body awareness can enhance one’s playing. 

Opportunities to share your ideas, publicize your events, and post photos and videos are plentiful for members of LA Flute Network. I invite you to become a member. It’s open to everyone.  Professional flutists, amateur flutists, private studio teachers, university teachers, students, people working in the music business and anyone who loves flute. Invite your friends and colleagues to join and participate. It’s easy.  And the best part is, you don’t have to drive on the freeway and deal with traffic!

So sit back, sign up, join in as a member of LA Flute Network. I’m looking forward to meeting you!

 

[Janet K Bordeaux]

Thanks for getting this started! I'm already a member of a global flute forum: http://www.FlutistConnect.com

I like that this one is local. I look forward to participating and learning!