The Flute Society of Kentucky (FSK) is pleased to announce the 2025 Flute Festival, which will take place on March 29, 2025, at the University of Kentucky in Lexington, KY. This annual event brings together flutists of all ages and skill levels for a day filled with performances, competitions, masterclasses, and networking opportunities.
The festival will feature Kathy Karr, Principal Flutist of the Grammy Award-winning Louisville Orchestra, as the guest artist. In addition to a masterclass and performance, the event will offer a variety of activities, including solo and ensemble competitions, workshops, presentations, and an Honors Flute Choir. The festival is open to students, educators, performers, and flute enthusiasts who wish to expand their skills and engage with the broader flute community.
Competitions for Emerging and Advanced Flutists
The Flute Society of Kentucky hosts annual competitions that provide flutists with the opportunity to perform, compete, and receive recognition for their talents. These competitions are designed to accommodate musicians at different stages of their development, from young students to emerging professionals.
The 2025 festival will feature four competition categories:
- Junior Soloist Competition (Grade 8 and below)
- Recorded Round: Carl Nielsen, The Children Are Playing
- Final Round (Live): W.A. Mozart, Andante in C, K. 315
- High School Soloist Competition (Grades 9-12)
- Recorded Round: Karg-Elert, Caprices for Flute, Op. 107, No. 16 and Emile Pessard, Andalouse (mm. 11-22)
- Final Round (Live): Chaminade, Concertino
- Collegiate Soloist Competition (Undergraduate students)
- Recorded Round: C.P.E. Bach, Sonata in A minor for Solo Flute, Wq. 132, H 562, Mvt. I Poco Adagio
- Final Round (Live): Carl Reinecke, Ballade, Op. 288
- Young Artist Competition (Performers under 31 years of age)
- Recorded Round: Jacques Ibert, Piece
- Final Round (Live): Sergei Prokofiev, Sonata, Mvt. II Scherzo: Presto
Call for Proposals: Performers and Presenters
The Flute Society of Kentucky is also inviting performers and presenters to submit proposals for the 2025 Flute Festival. The festival aims to reflect the diverse interests of its members and the larger flute community, covering topics such as:
- Flute pedagogy and teaching methods
- Flute history and key figures
- Musicians’ health and wellness
- Solo and chamber performances featuring works from any time period
Proposals must be submitted by March 15, 2024, and all selected performers and presenters must register for the festival by the same date. Participants must perform the same repertoire submitted in their original proposal.
Honors Flute Choir: A Unique Opportunity for High School Flutists
One of the festival’s most celebrated traditions is the Honors Flute Choir, which brings together outstanding high school flutists from across Kentucky. This ensemble offers young musicians an opportunity to perform alongside their peers and gain valuable ensemble experience.
Students must be nominated by their band director or private instructor to be considered for the Honors Flute Choir. Selected students must be available to rehearse and perform at the festival on March 28-29, 2025.
Masterclasses and Vendor Exhibits
In addition to competitions and performances, the festival will host a masterclass with guest artist Kathy Karr, where select participants will receive one-on-one coaching from a seasoned performer and educator.
The event will also feature a vendor exhibit, where attendees can explore a wide selection of flutes, accessories, and sheet music from leading flute makers and retailers. This is an excellent opportunity for flutists to try out new instruments and gear while connecting with industry professionals.
An Exciting Gathering for Flutists in 2025
The 2025 Flute Festival promises to be an enriching experience for flutists of all levels. Whether attending as a competitor, performer, student, or audience member, participants will find numerous opportunities to learn, grow, and celebrate the flute.
The event will be held at the University of Kentucky, Lexington, and is open to flutists of all ages and backgrounds. For more information on registration, competition guidelines, and proposal submissions, go to the website of the Flute Society of Kentucky
Mark your calendars and be part of this inspiring musical event on March 29, 2025!
