The Global Flute Excellence Awards 2024 shine a spotlight on four extraordinary flutists nominated for the prestigious Performer of the Year category. Each nominee exemplifies the highest standards of artistry, innovation, and dedication to the flute world, yet they bring unique perspectives and strengths to the table. This diversity is a testament to the flute’s versatility and global reach, and it is thrilling to see such different voices represented in one category.
Paolo Taballione: Italian Virtuosity and Global Ambassadorship
Representing Italy, Paolo Taballione dazzled audiences with his technically impeccable and emotionally profound performance of Mozart’s Concerto No. 2 for Flute and Orchestra with the Orchestra Sinfonica Brutia on December 1, 2024. Under Maestro Marco Titotto, Taballione’s shimmering tone and seamless interplay with the orchestra breathed new life into Mozart’s masterpiece. The video is available on YouTube.
Beyond the concert stage, his dedication to nurturing young flutists through masterclasses in Europe and the U.S. cements his role as a global ambassador for the flute. His ability to captivate audiences and inspire students alike highlights his exceptional contributions to the flute world.
Stefán Ragnar Höskuldsson: Champion of New Music and Orchestral Excellence
The Principal Flute of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Stefán Ragnar Höskuldsson, combines technical brilliance with an unparalleled commitment to expanding the flute repertoire. His premiere of Lowell Liebermann’s Flute Concerto No. 2 with the CSO on March 21, 2024 was nothing short of historic. Critics praised his nuanced phrasing, mastery of color, and ability to connect deeply with audiences.
Höskuldsson’s versatility was also evident in his chamber music performances, particularly in Schoenberg’s Pierrot lunaire, where he demonstrated an equal command of contemporary and classical styles. His devotion to education, exemplified by his masterclass at the Flute Center of Chicago, showcases his commitment to nurturing the next generation of flutists.
Alexis Kossenko: A Visionary of Historical Performance
French flutist and conductor Alexis Kossenko has redefined historical performance in 2024 with a series of groundbreaking projects. From his Belle Époque-inspired recital in Venice on April 19, 2024 (the video is available on YouTube) to Baroque masterpieces at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées, Kossenko’s artistry knows no bounds. His leadership of Les Ambassadeurs ~ La Grande Écurie has brought lesser-known gems to light, while his critically acclaimed recordings of Mondonville and Colin de Blamont have enriched our understanding of 18th-century music.
Equally at home in modern and historical contexts, Kossenko’s performances blend scholarship with sheer musicality, making him an essential voice in today’s classical music landscape.
François Lazarevitch: A Trailblazer in Historical Interpretation
François Lazarevitch’s commitment to historical accuracy and creativity has set new standards for interpreting Mozart’s works. His innovative recording of Mozart’s flute concertos featured historically informed instruments and original cadenzas, reimagining these timeless works for modern listeners.
As the director of Les Musiciens de Saint-Julien, Lazarevitch has also championed lesser-known Baroque repertoire, sharing its beauty with international audiences. His Maryland recital featuring solos by Marais and C.P.E. Bach demonstrated his depth and versatility, captivating listeners with his mastery of the one-keyed flute.
The Power of Diversity
The Performer of the Year category exemplifies the extraordinary range of the flute world. From Paolo Taballione’s classical brilliance to Stefán Ragnar Höskuldsson’s advocacy for contemporary music, Alexis Kossenko’s historical insights, and François Lazarevitch’s groundbreaking interpretations, each nominee represents a unique facet of flute artistry.
This celebration of diversity enriches the global flute community, inspiring musicians and audiences alike. Regardless of who takes home the award, these artists remind us of the endless possibilities of the flute and its ability to transcend boundaries.
