FAQ

I can’t attend all the live sessions, is it still worth me signing up?

All classes are optional and you’re really not expected to attend everything (although you’re very welcome to!). We have a lot of classes going on throughout the festival, so there will be plenty to be busy with. Either way, if you are concerned about missing any of the sessions, we are aiming to record them and make them available so you can watch them at your leisure.

Why would I pay for this festival when there is so much free content online at the moment?

This is of course a very valid question! There is an abundance of great free content online, but this festival is also focusing on bringing people together and making the experience as ‘real', live and interactive as possible. We are literally trying to recreate your much loved conventions and courses as best we can, from the comfort and safety of your own home. There will also be continuity; warm-ups and live sessions every day - and we want you to get your flute out and join in! We will also be supporting people in forming ensembles and study groups, so we can all connect, share and support each other. The video bank is less interactive, but it not only consolidates top-class exclusive material, it is providing financial support to professional flute players during this difficult time.  

What if I have WiFi/Technology issues?

Performers and audience will be sent easy instructions in our welcome packs. In case of any unforeseen technical issues at either end, we are hoping to record all classes and make them available to watch after the session.  We also have a ‘Virtual Receptionist’ on hand to help. In the meantime, please get in touch if you’re worried.

£125 (earlybird) is a lot of money right now, how can you justify the price?

We are providing well over 30 hours of content from world class performers and teachers during the festival. EVERY artist is being paid for this event and we believe that their knowledge and expertise shouldn’t be financially compromised just because we’re online. Many musicians are struggling at the moment and every little helps! There is also a huge amount of admin/time involved in a project this size and we have website and online costs to account for. BUT! As stated throughout the website, if you or someone you know a’re in financial hardship due to current events and would still like to be a part of the festival, please get in touch, we have some subsidised tickets available.

Can I take part just using my phone?

It would work but we wouldn’t recommend it. For the best experience, we would suggest using a desktop computer, laptop or tablet.

I don’t live in the UK, do I need to worry about the time difference?

All times listed are in UK (BST) GMT+1 and you will need to factor in any timezone difference for the live feeds and classes.
You can check these against your timezone here:
https://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/converter.html
If times don’t suit, we’re hoping to record classes and make available after the sessions. We will be planning the schedule a week at a time, so we can take on board any feedback. If timings don’t suit, we can look at changing them moving forward.

How will an online ensemble work?

For those who would like to join an ensemble: we will be splitting into small groups, providing sheet music and suggesting various different ways to achieve an online performance, all with very clear instructions (using apps such as ‘acapella’). Creating ensembles like these obviously aren’t as rewarding as the real thing, but they’re a lot of fun and throw up some interesting challenges!

What is a study group?

For those who would like to join a ‘study group’: we will help assign people to a group where you’ll have the option of doing anything extra, such as performing to each other and sharing skills and ideas. We’ll be sending suggestions and providing music, studies, exercises etc.

What’s ‘the break room’?

A forum where students can connect and discuss all things flutey! We’ll send the login with the welcome pack.

How will flute choir work?

Our Flute Choir leader will be sending out sheet music (a brand new arrangement of a much loved piece), along with a recording with multiple parts so that you can pick a part and record it over the top. They’ll also send some helpful tips and a video of them conducting to help with the play-along (and you can imagine it’s the real thing!). We’ll then multi-track your recorded parts and put it all together. We know it’s not the same as the real thing, but it’ll involve everyone and hopefully be a fun challenge and a lovely memento for the end of the festival.

Have an unanswered question?

Please don’t hesitate to contact us