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Flute at Arts Academy


Why Study Flute at Interlochen

Traditionally heard as a solo instrument, in orchestral and chamber music settings, and in the realm of jazz, the flute also possesses great versatility in contemporary music of all genres. At Interlochen Arts Academy, you’ll hone your skills, develop your artistry, and explore the flute’s many possibilities.

What You’ll Learn

Our boarding school for flute provides a vibrant environment where you can reach your full potential. Our six unique music tracks will help you focus on your interests and express your talent in a way that's unique to you.

All our students take a combination of private and studio classes, as well as participate in small and large ensembles. Our instruction is tailor-made for you. You'll work on healthy physicality in flute playing, develop strong depth and knowledge in fundamental practice and skills, and explore your interpretive skills through a broad range of repertoire.

How to Apply

Audition Requirements

Meet the Faculty

Nancy Stagnitta

Instructor of Flute

All Faculty

Get to know Eloise

"I have made so many friendships and built such special bonds that I am certain will last far beyond my graduation from Interlochen." - Eloise, Classical Performance

Guest Artists

  • Jeanne Baxtresser, (former) Principal Flute, New York Philharmonic; (former) Instructor of Flute, The Juilliard School
  • Sir James Galway, globally renowned soloist
  • Amy Porter, University of Michigan professor and international soloist
  • Jim Walker, Colburn School; University of Southern California; former Principal Flutist for the Los Angeles Philharmonic; founder of the jazz quartet Free Flight

Program Highlights

Performance Opportunities

You'll have opportunities to rehearse and perform in various ensembles, including orchestra, wind symphony, and chamber music, as well as jazz and popular music settings. Learn more in our Explore Ensembles below.

Access to Flute Leaders

As a flute instrumentalist at Interlochen, you will have access to guest artists from leading conservatories and university programs, as well as major symphony orchestras and the solo stage.

The Music Center

Our state-of-the-art 60,000 square-foot music facility has two 3,500 square-foot rehearsal halls, two recording studios which allow for rehearsal and performance recordings in multiple venues on campus with multiple ensemble and practice rooms, and individual faculty teaching studios. Learn more about The Music Center.

Explore Ensembles

Chamber

Assembled at the faculty's discretion, chamber music ensembles are offered as electives in the Music division. Each ensemble is coached by one of the Arts Academy's acclaimed instrumental faculty.

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Orchestra

A recipient of the American Prize, the Interlochen Arts Academy Orchestra performs an advanced repertoire that includes symphonies, concerti, contemporary works, and original compositions.

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Wind Symphony

The American Prize-winning Interlochen Arts Academy Wind Symphony presents a diverse and challenging repertoire in regular live, prerecorded, and public radio performances.

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Jazz

The Interlochen Arts Academy Jazz Ensemble boasts a storied history as one of the nation's most elite high school ensembles. Members develop as soloists and ensemble performers through rehearsals and performances of jazz standards and contemporary works.

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Jazz Combos

Interlochen Arts Academy's jazz combos are select groups of five to eight of the jazz program's most experienced improvisers. Members flex their skills as improvisers, while practicing collaboration and ensemble communication.

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A girl playing the flute

Interlochen was truly a life-changing experience for me. My time studying with Ms. Stagnitta within a studio of other passionate musicians created a new vision for how I saw myself and involvement with music. I am so grateful for my time making beautiful music in the middle of the Northern Michigan woods as a part of my journey to self-discovery.

Delia, Classical Performance

Featuring the alto flute

Watch as Instructor of Flute Nancy Stagnitta plays "Moonlight in Vermont" by Karl Suessdorf with Grammy Award winner Bob James on piano inside Interlochen Center for the Arts' Dendrinos Chapel and Recital Hall.

College Matriculation

Recent Interlochen Arts Academy Music Division students have continued their education at the following institutions and beyond.

  • Berklee College of Music
  • Boston Conservatory at Berklee
  • California Institute of the Arts
  • Carnegie Mellon University
  • Cleveland Institute of Music
  • Curtis Institute of Music
  • Indiana University
  • The Juilliard School
  • Johns Hopkins University
  • Manhattan School of Music
  • New England Conservatory
  • New York University
  • Northwestern University
  • Oberlin College and Conservatory
  • Rice University
  • San Francisco Conservatory of Music
  • University of Miami
  • University of Michigan
  • University of Rochester
  • University of Southern California
  • Vanderbilt University

Mei Stone plays on NPR's From the Top and with "The President's Own" United States Marine Band

As a student at Interlochen Arts Academy, flute player Mei Stone experienced great success through hard work and determination.

Read story

Mei Stone performing.

Dive deeper into Interlochen Arts Academy with a free digital viewbook

Arts Academy Viewbook Thumbnail

In our free informational booklet, you'll learn more about: 

  • Each of our seven arts areas 
  • Renowned faculty 
  • College-preparatory academics 
  • Student resources 
  • How to apply and financial aid information 
  • And more