The 1st Puerto Rico Flute Festival (PRFF) is set to take place from June 12-14, 2025, at the Puerto Rico Conservatory of Music in San Juan. With an international flair, the festival will bring together renowned flutists from Puerto Rico and around the world for an inspiring three-day event filled with concerts, masterclasses, workshops, and exhibitions.
Themed “Celebrations,” PRFF will pay homage to Puerto Rico’s rich musical heritage while embracing the flute’s global influence. From traditional Puerto Rican melodies to cutting-edge contemporary works, the festival will highlight the flute’s versatility and its ability to connect cultures.
A Stellar Lineup of Guest Artists
PRFF 2025 will feature an impressive roster of international and Puerto Rican flutists, including:
- Mario Caroli – Professor at the Freiburg University of Music, known for his groundbreaking interpretations and dedication to contemporary music.
- Gareth McLearnon – Acclaimed international soloist, composer, and arranger, and Haynes Flutes Artist-in-Residence.
- Beatriz Macías – Principal Flute of the Estonian National Opera and Artistic Director of the Tampere Flute Fest.
- Giovanni Pérez – Professor at Liberty University, Latin Grammy nominee, and an expert in Latin jazz and improvisation.
- Josué Casillas – Principal Flutist of the Puerto Rico Symphony Orchestra and Flute Professor at the Puerto Rico Conservatory of Music.
- Ana María Hernández – Solo Piccolo of the Puerto Rico Symphony Orchestra and an advocate for new flute compositions.
- Gabriel Cruz-Ruíz – Assistant Principal Flute of the Puerto Rico Symphony Orchestra, recognized for his international achievements.
- Elisabet Franch – Principal Flute of the Simfònica del Vallès in Spain.
These world-class artists will lead performances, masterclasses, and lectures, offering festival attendees an unparalleled opportunity to learn and engage with some of the most influential figures in the flute world.
Young Artist Competition: Showcasing Rising Talent
The Young Artist Competition (YAC) at PRFF will provide exceptional young flutists aged 18-30 with a platform to demonstrate their talent and artistry.
Competition Timeline & Requirements
- March 1, 2025 – First round submission deadline (video auditions).
- April 7, 2025 – Announcement of finalists.
- June 14, 2025 – Final round and announcement of winners (live in Puerto Rico).
Repertoire
First Round:
- One of the Twelve Fantasies by G.P. Telemann.
- Solo de Pajarillo by Omar Acosta.
- Caprice No. 30, Op. 107 by S. Karg-Elert.
Final Round:
- Zuania ris by Carlos Carrillo.
- A work of the contestant’s choice (up to 20 minutes).
Prizes
Winners of the Young Artist Competition will receive:
- A custom headjoint valued at $1,000 (sponsored by Pere Alcon Flutes).
- A flute innovation product valued at $500 (sponsored by Ce Flute Invention).
- A flute accessory product valued at $250 (sponsored by Woodify).
Jury Panel
The competition will be judged by an esteemed panel, including:
- Elisabet Franch – Principal Flute of the Simfònica del Vallès.
- Mario Caroli – Professor at the Freiburg University of Music.
- Beatriz Macías – Principal Flute of the Estonian National Opera.
The final round will take place live in San Juan, offering competitors the opportunity to perform on stage and engage with the global flute community.
Festival Highlights
PRFF will offer a dynamic and engaging program, including:
Concerts
- Viva Puerto Rico – A celebration of Puerto Rican flute music with Josué Casillas, Giovanni Pérez, Ana María Hernández, and Gabriel Cruz-Ruíz.
- Flute Voices from Around the Globe – Featuring performances by Mario Caroli, Beatriz Macías, and Elisabet Franch.
- Gala Concert: Celebrations – A grand finale featuring flute choirs led by Gareth McLearnon and Nathalia Pérez, as well as performances by Young Soloist Award winners.
Masterclasses and Workshops
- Youth and Junior Masterclasses – Led by Josué Casillas and Giovanni Pérez, offering opportunities for young flutists to receive expert guidance.
- Advanced Masterclasses – With Mario Caroli and Elisabet Franch, focusing on technical mastery and musical interpretation.
- Orchestral Excerpts and Concerti Masterclass – With Beatriz Macías, designed for advanced students preparing for orchestral auditions.
- Piccolo Workshop – Led by Ana María Hernández, covering solo and orchestral piccolo playing.
- Latin Improv Workshop – With Giovanni Pérez, exploring improvisation techniques in Latin music.
Special Events
- Young Soloist Award – Selected flutists will perform at the Gala Concert and receive mentorship from guest artists.
- Lecture & Headjoint Trial: The Colors of Wood – A hands-on session with Pere Alcon, focusing on wooden headjoints.
- Teacher Meet-Up – A networking session with Valeria Sosa, providing insights into flute pedagogy.
Exhibitions: Explore the Latest in Flute Innovation
Throughout the festival, attendees will have the chance to explore a dedicated exhibition space, featuring:
- Flutes and headjoints from leading makers such as Haynes Flutes and Pere Alcon.
- Accessories and flute bags from specialty brands.
- New flute innovations and technology on display.
Join the Advanced Flute Choir!
Led by Gareth McLearnon, the Advanced Flute Choir invites flutists aged 18+ to participate in a special ensemble that will perform at the Gala Concert. Participants may even have the opportunity to accompany guest artists in a collaborative performance.
An Inspiring and Transformative Experience
The Puerto Rico Flute Festival is more than just a flute convention—it is a cultural and musical celebration that bridges local traditions with global flute artistry. With a strong emphasis on education, performance, and community, PRFF aims to inspire and empower a new generation of Puerto Rican flutists while welcoming flutists from around the world to experience the island’s unique musical landscape.
For more information on registration, guest artists, and festival updates, visit Puerto Rico Flute Festival Official Website.
