Masterclasses are a fantastic way of gaining performance experience and feedback, however they can be intimidating!
Here is a little guide to make the most of your first masterclass and go in with confidence:
- Choose music that you can play to performance level, unless a work in progress is asked for. Now is not the time to be learning notes!
- Remember that everyone is there to learn – no one expects a perfect performance (otherwise there wouldn’t be anything to discuss) and everyone is at a different stage of their flute playing journey
- Take a pencil for your music and don’t forget a copy of the piano part
- A notepad is useful whether you’re playing or observing – a lot of gems of information could be forgotten by the end of a busy class
- Dress comfortably. While few masterclasses are formal affairs, it is important to be smart, relaxed and able to move freely.
- Be a good audience for the other players and visiting teacher (even putting away the constant demand of our attention that are phones)
- Many good teachers will encourage discussion, however be careful not to argue or come across negatively if you don’t like your feedback. It should all be constructive, not personal!
- Even if you’re not playing, if a class focuses on particular rep, take a copy of the music when you can
- HAVE FUN. Enjoy the opportunity to perform and push yourself.
If you manage to do that in front of a room of likeminded flute players, you can do anything. - Sign up for the next opportunity!
Jessamy Robinson 