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By: Hilary Janysek, The NFA Flute Clubs Committee

Flute clubs are absolutely thriving around the US, internationally, and on the web. Flute clubs take on many different forms, but they all have one thing in common - there is a flute club out there for everyone! This blog discusses the types of flute clubs found in the US, how to find a flute club for you, and the benefits of getting involved with your flute community.

The National Flute Association (NFA) is one of the largest flute organizations and is always here to support you and your flute dreams! The NFA encourages you to stay involved with all of its offerings and explore other flute clubs to support your year-round flute activities. Outside of the NFA, each flute club is unique, serving the needs of their community. There are tons of workshops, social events, and performance opportunities available in locations that may be close to you! To discuss some commonalities, we have divided flute clubs into three different types: Regional, Online, and Flute Choirs.

Regional flute clubs, (AKA societies, or associations) are usually organized to serve a city or geographic area. They often resemble the NFA structure, but on a smaller scale – offering workshops, masterclasses, and performance opportunities to their local flutists and students. Their size and scope vary greatly, depending on their leadership, structure, and purpose. Most of these groups may have non-profit status, which means there is a set of bylaws and procedures they must abide by. One example is the Greater Portland Flute Society. They offer an annual flute fair, which is scheduled for April 4-5 this year and features Marco Granados. They also offer other learning opportunities such as a workshop on Traditional Chinese and Japanese Music and Instruments, Student Study Grants, Student Competitions, Flute Ensemble Gatherings, and more. Membership in a regional flute club often provides many opportunities for learning, networking, performing, and socializing throughout the year.

Online flute clubs are a great way to connect with other flutists from all walks of life from the comfort of your home. While online communication became necessary in 2020, it is now a powerful tool that facilitates the learning and sharing to anyone who has access to the internet. These flute communities are found on social media, their own mobile apps, or through virtual conventions. One of the newer flute communities is ToneBase Flute. This online community offers informative videos, discussion boards, practice challenges, and more! The community has its own website and mobile app, offering multiple subscription plans. With an NFA membership, you can receive a 30% discount towards your subscription. Other Free online groups include Etude of the Week and Solo of the Month, both found on Facebook.

Lastly, Flute Choirs can also be considered a flute club. Flute Choirs not associated with a regional flute club can also have non-profit status, but others may choose to operate with a single leader or director. Many Flute Choirs offer low-pressure performance opportunities with high value on social interactions, community involvement, and a regular performance schedule. An example of this is the Capital Area Flute Club. This Club meets on a monthly basis, performs at retirement homes and other community gatherings, and gives an end-of-season concert.

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