Passionate about music education, Sir James Galway has worked tirelessly to promote the arts and pass on the experience and knowledge he’s gained as a professional flutist to others.
He himself started playing on a borrowed flute as a young boy in Belfast before he would eventually hit the international stage as one of the most well-known classical musicians of the 20th century and before he collaborated on the famed The Lord of the Rings soundtrack.
“I am a firm believer that anyone, of any age or background, should have the opportunity to learn a musical instrument, be given music education or be able to further his or her musical studies,” Galway says. “To make this possible, they should have access to knowledge from those who have the experience and ability to pass it on.”
Thirty years ago, Galway started a flute residency in Switzerland, which eventually grew into the Galway Flute Academy. Since then, he’s gone around the world hosting masterclasses, flute festivals, and spreading music education.
On March 27th, Galway will conduct a free and open to the public masterclass at Colorado State University giving community members and students of all ages and skill levels a chance to learn directly from the master. “There is nothing like being able to guide a student through the challenges they face in pursuit of their goals,” says Galway.
Galway also hosts an online educational network that anyone can join. On Galway’s website he states, “To further connect us with students, educators and flute lovers, we created First Flute, my online teaching series, which allows you to learn from me anytime, anywhere and takes you on a visual journey into my world of teaching.”
Considered a living legend and the supreme interpreter of the classical flute repertoire, Galway has sold over 30 million recordings worldwide. His expressive interpretations span an extensive range of genres and is sure to please even the most casual of classical music fans. Galway will perform at the Fort Collins Lincoln Center on Sunday, March 26th. Regular tickets start at $33 and student seats start at $16.50.