When I was 10-years-old I was fortunate to have the opportunity to choose a musical instrument through a free music program at our school.

Growing up in the USA, I had always been attracted to marching bands, music of any kind. So when we moved to a new school that offered the chance to play an instrument - I was counting the days.

My first instrument of choice was not the flute, but the trombone. I was advised, being a young girl, not to play the trombone, but to choose the flute or clarinet. Hesitantly, I went to my first lesson telling the teacher I did not want to play the flute, but the trombone. I was asked to sit down and take the flute and we would see about me playing the trombone later.

What happened next is a moment that I will never forget and changed my life. I picked up the flute, made a sound, loved the sound and that was it. My life changed in one moment, and everything after was all about the flute and music…. all because of a free music education system in our local school.

Music education was available for me. Good teachers were available. Mentors were always there, all along the way to help me pursue my passion and dreams.

I am one of the very lucky ones. I have been given the chance to pursue my dream, on the highest level, surrounded by and performing with the finest musicians today on the International concert scene.

My journey has been a very simple one - I have loved teaching since I was 12-years-old. I have always felt a passion to share what I learned in my early years. Giving a student the foundations of learning a musical instrument and later, bringing them to a higher level, has brought me such joy and even more joy to those I have been able to share this learning experience with.

Playing a musical instrument is not just about playing an instrument. It is journey of self exploration combined with confidence, passion, deep friendships and bonds within the community and bringing oneself to circles that one would never dream of, a ticket to a fulfilling life. For this reason, I seek to keep music education alive and available to all.

First Flute Online

For many years, people have been asking Sir James to write a book about his method of flute playing. After thinking about this for a long time and working with students on a one-to-one basis, he decided that the best way to pass along his legacy was to take this idea one step further. This is why he created an online series where you can work with him anytime, anywhere – First Flute. The first lesson on First Flute begins with taking the flute out of the box. Many flutists often overlook the principles discussed in the early lessons of this series. We strongly encourage everyone; whether you are a beginner, more experienced player or music educator, to take the time to go through each lesson in this series. This school of flute playing has worked for generations. We hope you will join us in your journey as a flutist by becoming a part of Sir James’ online flute studio.

This programme is ideal for...
Beginner / Intermediate / Advanced

Flute Festivals

Our Flute Festivals offer flutists of all abilities the chance to attend and participate in a wonderfully supportive 5-10 day festival with Sir James, Lady Galway and other world-renowned artists. We offer festivals in countries across the world, including Switzerland, South Africa, South Korea and the USA. Each day begins with warm-ups led by Sir James, focusing on tone production and technique. The day continues with masterclasses given by Sir James and Lady Galway, along with workshops on orchestral excerpts, chamber ensemble music, improvisation, piccolo, low flutes, contemporary techniques and more. Evenings are filled with concerts by the world’s leading flutists and an Opening Gala Concert with Sir James and Lady Galway.

This programme is ideal for...
Intermediate / Advanced

Masterclasses

As we tour around the world, we offer a range of exclusive 1-day events and masterclasses for players of various levels. Masterclasses are open for all participants to observe, providing a fantastic opportunity to listen to fellow students perform and learn from Sir James and Lady Galway as they mentor others.

This programme is ideal for...
Intermediate / Advanced

LiveLearn

LiveLearn is a new way to connect with Sir James and Lady Galway online like never before. It includes live streaming classes, webinars, private lessons and interactive Q&A sessions. Additional content is posted for members too: tips, videos, blogs and catch-up clips of previously streamed classes. LiveLearn and First Flute are the ultimate ways to connect with the Galways from the comfort of your home, on your own schedule.

This programme is ideal for...
Beginner / Intermediate / Advanced

Residencies

Residencies are a multi-day masterclass and a wonderful chance to learn from the Galways in a more intimate setting with limited participants. They include a resident pianist, ensemble coaching by Lady Galway and a supportive “Galway atmosphere” no matter what level you are in playing ability.

This programme is ideal for...
Intermediate / Advanced

FlutePlayer Series

The FlutePlayer Series (coming soon) has been created to help players unlock the secrets to playing some of the greatest pieces of music ever written including many pieces you will be expected to perform at exam level.

This programme is ideal for...
Intermediate / Advanced