Dear Forum Members:

When I first came onto this Forum, I chose to use the word "Professional Flutists".

Others have taken issue with my "position".

When, whether in previous posts, or those posts that I will offer in the future, I refer to those flutists whom have acceded the highest in stature, whether symphony flutists, recital artists, or recording artists, I wanted to make one thing perfectly clear: they are professionals.

That is NOT to say there are NOT a LOT of very talented "amateur" flutists out there --- some of whom might well be Members of this Forum.

It is merely intended to impart that anyone who has been appointed (any chair) in a Major Symphony is, obviously, a flutist of great accomplishment. The same goes for recital flutists, and recording artists.

IF you think I'm providing "mis-information" --- then TRY to get a "job" as Principal flutist of the Philadelphia Orchestra, or the Boston Symphony, or the Chicago Symphony, etc. You'll be up against some 400+ applicants from around the globe who are VERY talented. Talk about competiton!

As far as being a recording artist --- do you think Deutsche Grammophone, London Recordings, RCA, etc., is going to sign you to a recording contract? You're up against Susan Milan, Marina Piccinini, James Galway, and on and on.

NOT to burst anyone's bubble. Practice HARD and just be the best you can be. You CAN aspire to become the member of a symphony --- you can become a recital or recording artist!

I just wanted to clarify what I'm talking about, when I refer to my former teachers --- all of whom were symphony members. AND JUST WHY I RESPECT THEM AND THEIR TEACHINGS, when other members of this forum (obviously) do NOT.

When you're a member of a MAJOR symphony orchestra, you're the BEST. And, for the future, that's whom I studied under.
Four differnt symphony flutists (four different orchestras).

Why? Because I'm THAT good? NO --- because I got lucky. In a time (50s' and 60s') when you COULD study with a symphony flutist. That's NOT true, anymore. Don't believe me? E-mail Jeff Khaner (Philadelphia Orchestra) --- e-mail Don Peck (former, CSO) --- e-mail James Pellerite --- e-mail ANY "name" flutist you CAN name, and let's see where you go.

I will use TWO words in my future posts: "Professional" --- and "Amateur". When I say "Professional, I MEAN PROFESSIONAL.

Tired of all of the "professional" flutists on this forum taking issue with my word: "professional". I respect their opinions and teachings, even if no one else does.

Jim Millen

I'm not sure I really understand your motivation for starting this thread.

You appear to take on a "tone" that is somewhat offensive to many people on this forum. At the very least, it closes the door of communication. Why?

The number of times you bring up who you have studied with is presented in a "bragging" manner. Why?

Now you make this post to put people in to or exclude them from a category....in such a way that is downright snobby.

What is your motivation?

ahhhh, getting old Jim, chill pill time...

Regarding the assumption that all major orchestral principals are the best of the best:

The Texas Flute Society hosted an exhibition for Muramatsu of America and Ervin Monroe performed a Mozart concerto. We were all kind of shocked by his playing. It was like he didn't prepare it, or he just didn't care. I have trouble believing he's just that bad of a player, given his position. But at least after his performance we all felt better about OUR playing. I could totally be the Detroit principal (lol).

...daerhtsuoregnadootA

I think you are being a little too narrow in your use of professional. Professional is anyone who gets paid, makes a living out of playing.

I agree with the above statement. The original posters classification a profession flutist is so narrow it would literaly limit the number professionals to a just a few.

ive studied under both ervin monroe (former principal DSO) and jeff zook (current piccolo of DSO). very easy to contact for lesson, however expensive. ive also taken a few lessons from rhonda larson (im sure you know of her). once again, easy to contact. ive only come across one person who would not teach outside of her position. most of these people dont get paid much as an orchestral musician and are willing to take on a few extra bucks.

just my cash for the day.

I have studies under God. The only teacher I will ever need.

Not to change the subject, but the last Detroit Symphony concert I attended this current season still lists Erv Monroe as the principal flutist.

he said he was retiring... im not sure if he officially did, but i thought he did. ::checks the dso website:: they say he still is. hm. i was almost positive he did retire...

oh well.