Michael W  
Instruments: Flute, Piccolo
Styles: Classical

I have been teaching flute for over 20 years and bring a wealth of experience working with students of all ages and abilities. In addition to running a thriving private studio, I have served as Associate Instructor of Flute at Indiana University during my graduate studies and as a Guest Artist at the Denver School of the Arts. I also co-direct the Mile High Flute Benders, a community flute choir that provides flutists with opportunities to grow as ensemble musicians. My teaching philosophy combines strong fundamentals—tone, technique, rhythm, and musicianship—with individualized instruction that helps each student meet their goals. I have extensive experience coaching woodwind sectionals, preparing students for auditions and competitions, and guiding beginners through their very first notes. Whether you are picking up the flute for the first time, preparing for an audition, or simply seeking to grow as a musician, I provide supportive, patient, and personalized lessons that make music both rewarding and fun.

I approach my teaching method with the perspective of a guided musical exploration. While I have certain methods and books that I rely on I tailor lessons individually to each students' style of learning and goals. I want lessons to be fun and engaging leaving the student inspired to practice and excited to attend the next lesson. Beginner/Intermediate Students: At this level the most important elements are developing proper flute technique (holding the flute, creating a good embouchure, breathing, how to stand/sit with the flute, basic articulation) and good practice habits. Students will learn proper fingerings through scale practice, begin to develop their tone through etudes and short solo pieces, and learn to properly use a metronome. Basic music theory and history will be incorporated into lessons. Advanced Students: Older and more advanced students are encouraged to be active in guiding the direction of their flute lessons. Students will be given the tools to advance their technique through the use of scale books, weekly etudes and exercises, their musical interpretation skills with solo pieces and orchestral excerpts, and an increased understanding of music theory and history. Suggested Methods and Etude Books: Beginners: Trevor Wye – Beginner’s Book for the Flute (Parts 1 and 2); Rubank – Elementary Method for Flute; Louis Moyse – 40 Little Pieces Intermediate: Mel Bay – Indispensable Book of Scales, Exercises, and Etudes for the Developing Flutist; Rubank – Intermediate Method and/or Advanced Method; Trevor Wye – Tone and/or other practice books; M. Moyse – 24 Little Melodic Studies with Variations; Kohler – 15 Easy Etudes, Op. 33; Joachim Andersen – 24 Etudes, Op. 30 Advanced: M. Moyse – De La Sonorite; M. Moyse – Tone Development through Interpretation; Taffanel and Gaubert – 17 Daily Exercises; M.A. Reichert – 7 Daily Exercises, Op. 5; Andre Maquarre – Daily Exercises for the Flute; Walfrid Kujala - The Flutists Vade Mecum; Joachim Andersen – 24 Etudes, Op. 33; B.T. Berbigiuer - 18 Studies for the Flute; Ernesto Kohler - Romantic Etudes