We are delighted to welcome the Belgian Flutist Aldo Baerton to the 4th Summer Flute Academy (AFV). Aldo is Principal Flute of the Royal Flemish Philharmonic, and Professor at the Conservatories in Antwerp and Utrecht. As a Powell Artist, he comes to Porto through the sponsorship of Powell Flutes, USA—thank you, Boston!

Along with a master class for AFV participants, he'll be presenting an exciting recital accompanied by Jon Ayerst of REMIX ENSEMBLE, joining us for our teacher's opening recital, and making his first proper visit to Porto and Portugal. Bemvindo, Aldo, and thank you so much for joining us! (Time to break out a decent bottle of wine!). His classes are filled, but auditors may of course attend—Tuesday and Wednesday morning, July 26 and 27.

Next Monday, already, the 4th Summer Flute Academy (Academia de Flauta de Verão) will start up, and it's going to be the best, ever! We'll all be busy playing for 6 intense days, with workshops and ensemble playing and so much else I can barely remember it all. This year for the first time, we'll have the added excitement of a master class and recital by the wonderful Belgian flutist Aldo Baerten, courtesy of Powell Flutes, who we thank very much. More about Aldo soon!

Just two things I want to say about the AFV: there is still time to sign up as a auditor on the AFV website! Secondly, what an honor it is to work in tandem with my wonderful colleagues Stephanie Wagner (REMIX ENSEMBLE) and Raquel Lima (ESMAE). Along with being fabulous flutists, who are always pushing the envelope (or several!), they are THE BEST collaborators ever! We've been working behind the scenes all year, so come over and see what's up! Here's a happy photo from last year's edition:

Professors Raquel Lima and Stephanie Wagner, Ana Sofia Domingues, and myself—3rd AFV, 2015

Aldo Baerten to perform and teach at the Summer Flute Academy

Summer Flute Academy - almost time!