General Information
Who is the Festival for?
Quite simply – anyone who enjoys playing or listening to the flute. If you play, whatever your level, there will be something for you. If you’re less experienced, there are flute choirs, warm ups, world flute taster sessions and incredible recitals from some of the world’s top players. If you’re already a dab hand, we have workshops, master classes, advanced ensembles and more. If you just want to listen – we have recitals planned throughout the entirety of the Festival.
Young people under 18 are very welcome to attend, but they will need to be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.
What are the dates and location of the Festival?
The Festival runs from 4pm on 15th August to around 4pm on 17th August 2025 at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire in the United Kingdom.
What does a Day Pass or Festival Pass give access to?
If you purchase a Day Pass or Festival Pass, you can access all timetabled events. There are a handful of exceptions – for instance, you will need to register separately to play in a masterclass.
Are the recitals open to the public?
Yes, but you will need to purchase recital tickets separately.
I’m nervous about playing flute in public. Do I have to play?
You can play as much or as little as you want to.
Lessons, Classes and Ensembles
How can I sign up for lessons, masterclasses or ensembles?
Booking for these will open up in May 2025 and there will be registration forms for each.
I play piccolo / alto flute / bass / contrabass etc flute – can I bring these to the ensembles?
Yes, please do! We will have some harmony instruments available to play, but the more players with these the better. There will be an opportunity to mention these on the ensemble registration pages.
Do I need to prepare anything for the lessons or ensembles?
For lessons, it is best to bring something you have been working on. For ensembles – we will send out some music shortly in advance of the Festival.
Are there trade stands at the Festival?
Yes, we will have pretty much every major flute manufacturer present, as well as many boutique makers. Flute makers are coming across from Europe, the USA, Korea and Japan. If you want to play test a new flute, there is no better opportunity.
Logisitics
Why did you choose Birmingham for the Festival?
We wanted a central location with good transport links which is easy to reach for as many people as possible. The RBC has stunning facilities and recital halls, and has plenty of reasonably-priced accommodation and restaurants nearby.
Are accommodations available near the festival venue?
Yes – Aston is the closest, but there are plenty of options very near by. See our accommodation page for more details.
What are the parking and transportation options?
RBC’s website lists comprehensive directions by road and rail. For our international visitors, Birmingham Airport is well served with flights from major European cities
Are there nearby dining options?
Boult’s Bar and Restaurant is located in the Foyer of the RBC and there are plenty of eating places within walking distance.