Welcome to the UT Flute Studio!
The UT Flute Studio is built upon a foundation of excellence, where students are encouraged to set meaningful goals and pursue them with dedication and artistry. Our environment is supportive and collaborative, fostering open and transparent communication between mentor and student to ensure trust and growth. Each lesson is personalized and carefully designed to align with both course expectations and the individual goals of the student, recognizing that every flutist’s path is unique. Students are expected to engage proactively in studio events, contributing to a vibrant and active community that extends beyond the lesson room. Above all, our studio approaches music-making with love, cultivating artistry that is not only technically refined but also deeply expressive and fulfilling.
Academics
Regardless of degree path, all flute students benefit from weekly private lessons, chamber music and large ensemble participation, and a comprehensive curriculum designed to strengthen technical skills, deepen musical understanding, and support long-term career goals.
Regardless of degree path, all flute students benefit from weekly private lessons, chamber music, flute choir, and large ensemble participation. A comprehensive curriculum guides students to strengthen technical skills, deepen musical understanding, and support long-term career goals.
Undergraduate Programs
Students in the Flute Studio may pursue either a Bachelor of Music (BM) or a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Music, depending on their career goals and interests.
- The Bachelor of Music (BM) is a professional degree designed for students seeking advanced training in music performance, education, jazz, composition, or theory. Applied lessons are a central part of the degree for most concentrations (such as performance, education, and jazz) and may be optional in others (such as composition and theory).
- The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Music is a flexible, interdisciplinary degree that allows students to study music in context with other fields such as media, business, communications, and culture. Applied lesson requirements are dependent on the chosen track.
Students should review the degree requirements carefully to see how applied lessons fit into their intended program of study.
Graduate Programs
Graduate students may pursue a Master of Music in Music Education or Music Performance with flute as their primary area of study.
Graduate Artist Certificate
Designed for highly accomplished performers seeking to refine their artistry, the Graduate Artist Certificate offers advanced study as a stand-alone program.
Meet Professor Maria Fernanda Castillo
Flutist, musicologist and entrepreneur Maria Fernanda Castillo has been offering intentional and meaningful performances that can contribute to the search for balance in the music world. Assistant Professor of Flute at the University of Tennessee- Knoxville, and co-founder of the Latin American Music Initiative, Maria has found approaches to teaching, research, and performances that not only highlight the importance of standard works in the flute canon but also help the inclusion, awareness and accessibility of works by underrepresented composers.
Hailed by the New York Times as a flutist who performs with “…virtuoso panache,” Maria debuted in New York City with the Philharmonic Orchestra of the Americas in 2008, under Alondra de la Parra.
Performance Opportunities
Flute students at UT enjoy a rich variety of ensemble experiences that support their growth as versatile musicians. They audition and regularly perform with the Wind Ensemble, Symphonic and Concert Bands, the Symphony Orchestra, Flute Choir, and a range of chamber music groups, coached by woodwind faculty, gaining valuable collaborative and performance skills.
In addition, students participate in studio recitals throughout the semester and are encouraged to take part in special events such as hosting and performing at the Vols Flute Fest, and collaborating with guest artists. These opportunities foster both artistic excellence and a strong sense of community within the studio.
Vols Flute Fest
Held each fall, the Vols Flute Fest fosters a close and supportive flute community in East Tennessee and beyond. Whether you’re a student, teacher, amateur, or professional flutist, VFF is for you! Join us for two days of masterclasses, concerts, and flute community.
Interested in the UT Flute Studio?
Schedule a Music Major for a Day Experience or Building Tour!
Get a true sense of what it’s like to be a music major at UT! Sit in on classes, attend rehearsals, meet with Professor Castillo, and tour our beautiful facilities.
Learn How To Apply
Whether you’re applying as a first-time college student, transfer student, or graduate student, admission to the Natalie L. Haslam College of Music is a multi-step process that includes applying to the University of Tennessee and to our college. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Graduate Teaching Assistantships
The Natalie L. Haslam College of Music offers a number of graduate teaching assistantships each academic year.
Assistantships carry a waiver of the university tuition, pays for mandatory university fees, medical coverage, and carries a monthly stipend.