Flute Center Presents
Jasmine Choi Masterclass
Tuesday, November 14 | 6PM ET | Live at Flute Center
Program
Vishal Kumar - Bernhard Romberg, Flute Concerto in B minor, Op.33
Helen Kao - Francis Poulenc, Flute Sonata
Q&A Session
Mina Sukovic - Sergei Prokofiev, Flute Sonata in D Major
Jocylin Braun - George Enescu, Cantabile et Presto
Masterclass Highlights
The flute masterclass focuses on helping four young students refine their performances, offering insights into musical interpretation, performance anxiety, and technical proficiency.
- Shift the focus: Instead of worrying about being perfect, try to be the "transparent glass" between the composer and the audience (58:55). It takes the pressure off of you!
- Lead with confidence: Choi reminded us that as soloists, we're the ones driving the ship. Even if you're nervous, try to embody that "tada!" energy from the inside out (15:53,19:24).
- The pre-concert prep: Don't stress too much in the final week. Give yourself permission to just enjoy the music and let it happen (57:44).
- Slow down: It sounds like a broken record, but for tricky spots, always practice slowly to build the right habits (128:42).
- Air quality > Quantity: It's not about how much air you push, but where it goes. Focus on focused, high-quality air (129:55).
- Vibrato variety: We need more than just one "speed" of vibrato. Treat it like your wardrobe—don't wear the same thing for every piece! Practice taking it off completely to find where it really needs to bloom (41:15,42:43).
- Know your composer: Choi dove deep into Romberg’s background as a cellist (21:51), and Prokofiev’s intense life during the war (110:06). Understanding their world changes the entire color of your performance!
- Vishal (05:00): Romberg, Flute Concerto in B minor– Working on body language and leading with confidence.
- Helen (32:46): Poulenc, Flute Sonata– Exploring flow, French colors, and varied vibrato.
- Mina (01:05:09): Prokofiev, Flute Sonata in D Major– Finding that sophisticated, slightly melancholic character.
- Jocylin (01:37:49): Enescu, Cantabile et Presto– Stepping out of the comfort zone for more texture and passion.
