Sir James Galway was inspired to play the flute by his father and uncle, both of whom were flutists. His uncle Joe taught him to play, continuing a family tradition that eventually led Galway to a professional music career.

Galway emphasizes the importance of practice, particularly focusing on scales, arpeggios, and major works like sonatas and concertos. He believes consistent, dedicated practice is the foundation for success.

Galway worked closely with Herbert von Karajan while he was principal flutist of the Berlin Philharmonic. He described this experience as a “once in a lifetime” opportunity due to Karajan’s brilliance and leadership.

Galway recalls playing Vivaldi's The Four Seasons at the Royal Albert Hall as one of his most memorable performances, demonstrating his ability to captivate audiences with his interpretation of classical masterpieces

Galway nearly missed his audition for the Berlin Philharmonic because of a timing issue, teaching him the critical importance of punctuality in professional music settings. He later described his experience with the orchestra as transformative.

Sir James Galway emphasizes the importance of mastering the fundamentals through traditional studies such as those by Marcel Moyse, Taffanel & Gaubert, which form the backbone of flute technique and musicianship.

Sir James Galway has had a profound impact on the flute community, not only as a performer but also as an advocate for expanding the flute repertoire. He has actively worked with contemporary composers, commissioning new works that showcase the flute’s versatility and elevate its status as a solo instrument.

Through these efforts, Galway has ensured the growth and evolution of flute music, bridging tradition and innovation while encouraging the next generation of musicians and composers to explore the instrument’s possibilities.

Sir James Galway believes that nurturing composers and their works is vital to the future of music. He emphasizes the importance of commissioning new works and collaborating closely with composers to bring their creations to life. By working with living composers, performers like Galway help expand the repertoire for their instrument and ensure that the music business remains vibrant and innovative.

His career is filled with examples of such collaborations, including the premieres of significant works like Joaquín Rodrigo's Concierto Pastoral and Lowell Liebermann's Flute Concerto, which were written specifically for him. This approach not only enriches the musical world but also solidifies the artist's role as an advocate for the evolving art of composition.

Galway attributes his unique tone to listening to singers and being influenced by the teaching and playing style of Marcel Moyse, a legendary flutist known for his lyrical approach.

Galway stresses the importance of preparation and thorough rehearsal, which he believes are crucial to delivering consistent, high-quality performances.

Sir James Galway believes that the role of classical music remains timeless and universal, serving as a bridge between tradition and contemporary audiences. He has often emphasized that classical music has not fundamentally changed in its essence; it continues to resonate with audiences through its emotional depth and beauty.

Sir James and Lady Jeanne Galway have been married for over 40 years, sharing both personal and professional lives as musical collaborators and educators.

Sir James Galway’s future aspirations reflect his enduring dedication to the flute community and his passion for music education. He has expressed a strong desire to publish the works and instructional materials he has developed over his career. These resources, ranging from flute studies to educational books, aim to guide and inspire both current and future generations of flutists.

In addition, Galway remains committed to teaching and mentoring through platforms like the Galway Flute Academy, where he shares his expertise with students worldwide. By focusing on education and expanding access to high-quality flute materials, Sir James Galway ensures that his legacy continues to shape and enrich the global flute community.