The highly anticipated Baroque and Classical/Romantic Flute Course in Budapest, featuring Benedek Csalog and Anne Pustlauk, reached full capacity within a week of its announcement, reflecting the strong demand for specialized historical flute instruction. Taking place from June 29 to July 3, 2025 at Piarist Gymnasium in the heart of Budapest, the course will bring together 13 advanced and professional flutists from across the globe, as well as beginners who have recently switched to Baroque, Classical, or Romantic flute.
A Diverse and International Gathering of Flutists
Participants from England, Germany, Russia, Switzerland, China, Taiwan, and Hungary will immerse themselves in early music practices. The course stands out not only for its expert-led instruction but also for its instrumental diversity – over 10 original 18th- and 19th-century flutes will be present, alongside 15-20 Baroque replicas.
While all active participant slots are now taken, a waiting list has been opened in case of cancellations, and there are unlimited spots available for passive participants wishing to observe the sessions.
Meet the Instructors
Benedek Csalog
A leading figure in the field of historically informed performance, Benedek Csalog is known for his contributions to Baroque and early Classical flute music. As the initiator of The Quantz Project, he has been instrumental in preserving and recording the complete works of Johann Joachim Quantz, a key figure in Baroque flute music. Csalog will lead sessions on both Baroque and Classical/Romantic flute repertoire, offering technical insights into phrasing, articulation, and period-specific performance techniques.
Anne Pustlauk
Anne Pustlauk, based in Belgium, is a respected simple system flute specialist with a focus on 19th-century performance practices. Holding a doctorate from Vrije Universiteit Brussel and the Royal Conservatory in Brussels, she has conducted extensive research on early Romantic flute playing and its historical context. In addition to her individual teaching, Pustlauk will deliver a lecture and group sessions for Classical/Romantic flute participants.
Course Structure and Repertoire
The course is designed for advanced and professional musicians as well as flutists who have recently transitioned to historical instruments. The sessions will explore:
Classical & Romantic Flute
- Repertoire from the Classical and Early Romantic periods for simple system (non-Böhm) flute
- Solo pieces, chamber music with pianoforte, and flute ensembles (duos, trios, etc.)
- Encouragement for participants to bring a piece from their home country or current residence
Baroque Flute
- Repertoire from 1700–1760, covering challenging works and technical refinements
- Breathing techniques, extended dynamics, special fingerings, double and triple tonguing (did’ll), and intonation
Special Features of the Course
Beyond individual lessons and group sessions, the course will include:
- Recitals by Benedek Csalog and Anne Pustlauk
- A lecture by Anne Pustlauk on historical flute performance
- Morning warm-ups, intonation exercises, and technique sessions
A Unique Opportunity for Historical Flute Enthusiasts
The rapid enrollment in this course highlights the growing global interest in historically informed performance. With top-tier instructors, a rich international presence, and a focus on authentic performance practices, the Budapest course has established itself as a leading event for flutists specializing in early music.
Remaining Registration Options
While active participation is no longer available, interested flutists can still register as passive participants to observe the sessions and learn from the experts. Early registration is encouraged.
For more details and to sign up as a passive participant, visit:
https://benedekcsalog.wixsite.com/baroqueflutebudapest
