National Flute Association preview!

It's almost that time of year again, that heady mix of excitement, neurosis, and classmate reunion that is the National Flute Association convention. It's in sultry Orlando this year, but I am thrilled to see that next year we'll be in beautiful, dry Salt Lake City. Whether you're going this year or not, I encourage you to make it happen at least occasionally (I know it's expensive, but it's also life-altering!). If you've never been, some words of wisdom:

  • Explore alternative housing.  The NFA discount is never that great when you see how expensive the room are to begin with.  Air BnB has been a lifesaver at these things!
  • Bring (healthy) snacks that can act as meal substitutes to save money and avoid missing out over the lunch hour. 
  • Bring layers. Sitting in a heavily air conditioned convention center all day for four days is painfully cold! 
  • Don't be shy.  Approach performers to congratulate them.  We like that, and we won't bite. 
  • Make new friends. Check our prospective teachers in performance and see if you can take a lesson. This is a great networking opportunity.
  • Maybe don't buy a new instrument there?  The exhibit hall is too chaotic to really get to know anything. But do try instruments and gather a list of what you'd like to try in the calm and quiet of your living room after you get home. (Students: play everything for your teacher before purchasing!!) 
  • It is most customary to arrive late and leave early for events because everything is always double- and triple-booked.  Anywhere else it's rude, but at NFA it's mandatory to breeze in and out for maximum exposure. Don't worry, we won't get mad. 
  • You cannot possible see/hear everything, so don't stress about what you're missing out.  Just go to the things that compel you most.But do go to something every hour if possible!


I'll be doing some performing and some talking again this year, and here are the details:

August 10-11: National Flute Association Convention at Hyatt Regency Orlando
August 10 @ 8:30 a.m.: Kay HE's On the Pivot of an Abandoned Carousel for flute and electronics (Concert: "The Future is Now!"; location: Celebration 5)
August 11 @ 8:30 a.m.: panel discussion: "Adventures in Adjuncting" (Location: Celebration 8)
August 12 @ 3pm: world premiere of a new quartet by Herman Beeftink, performed by ALTUSsimo (Concert: "Flute Chamber Ensemble Concert 2"; Location: Regency Q)

And if you're partial to the contemporary world of flute repertoire, come see me at Flute New Music Consortium's annual NFA dinner Friday at 6:30pm. We'll meet at the volunteer desk and walk to Cuba Libre for some tasty rum and small plates from there! Add yourself to the list here.

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