THE ULTIMATE FRENCH FLUTE EXPERIENCE
With Powell Artist Elisabeth Parry and John Alley of the London Symphony Orchestra
Play, learn and live the French flute dream in beautiful southwest France.
Extraordinary flute courses for serious adult amateurs— in a sun-drenched medieval
village surrounded by vineyards, with expert tuition, great food and wine, and flute
friends you’ll keep for life.
Course Dates 2027
Course 1
3–8 May
Course 2
23–28 May
Course 3
3–8 October
Courses are kept deliberately small to ensure individual attention. Places fill quickly.
“Most courses admit adults as an add-on or afterthought. But my life’s passion is
working with people like you. I understand the motivation, skills and life experience
that adult players bring to their musical work and I truly believe in your ability to
become the flutist you want to be.
I SEE YOU.
Flutes in France is built entirely around support. Before you arrive, we’ve already
spoken by Zoom. I know who you are and what you're hoping to achieve. And by the
end of the week, you won’t just be leaving with better technique and new musical ideas
— you’ll be leaving with lifelong flute friends.
My home becomes your musical home. That doesn’t end when you get on the plane.”
—Elisabeth Parry
“Flutes in France – marvelous music, fabulous friends, fantastic food all in a wonderful
setting with two of the most outstanding musicians and warmest people I have had the
privilege to meet.
A truly transformational experience that will continue to inspire me and stay with me
for ever.”
— Sandra W., Durham, England
am on my musical journey. The whole week felt like being welcomed into
a collaborative community of flutists and new friends. To my surprise, I
now plan to attend as many Flutes in France courses as I am able!”
Play and Progress
Individually tailored lessons, coached piano rehearsals, technique workshops, and
ensemble sessions from morning to evening — all at your level, all focused on real,
lasting progress.
Perform and Grow
Daily informal play-togethers build confidence throughout the week, culminating in a
final concert in the beautiful medieval church of Saint-Eutrope. You’ll go home a more
inspired, more confident performer.
Live the French Dream
Gourmet lunches and dinners together, meals at excellent local restaurants, wine from
the surrounding Bordeaux vineyards. Partners are welcome. L’art de vivre at its finest.
No one arrives cold.
Before you pack your bags, you and Elisabeth will have spoken by Zoom. She will
already know who you are, what you want to achieve, and exactly where you are in your
playing. From day one, the course is designed to respond to you and your fluting needs
and aspirations.
Adult flutists at intermediate level and above are warmly welcomed. Elisabeth chooses
inspiring repertoire with opportunities to explore your own playing at a level you feel
comfortable — whether it’s taking the spotlight or comfortably fitting into the section as
you gain confidence. Low flutes are available to borrow and explore.
Your Tutors
Elisabeth Parry — Powell Artist
Elisabeth Parry is one of the world’s leading coaches for adult amateur flutists, with
international courses spanning the UK, Europe, Australia, and beyond. She is known for
her warmth, her precision, and her ability to unlock real progress in players at every
level.
John Alley — London Symphony Orchestra
John Alley, formerly Principal Keyboard of the London Symphony Orchestra, brings
world-class accompanying and coaching to every lesson and rehearsal. His warm,
sensitive musicianship is the perfect complement to the supportive atmosphere of Flutes
in France.
Allemans-du-Dropt, Southwest France
A medieval village on the banks of a peaceful river, surrounded by vineyards, orchards,
and châteaux. You are welcomed into our beautiful 18th century home with its stunning
studio, furnished with a concert grand piano and extensive music library. The great
vineyards of Bordeaux are on the doorstep and our friend, Vincent, a prize-winning local
vigneron loves to come and personally share his wines with us at a private wine tasting.
Getting here from the US
Fly into Bordeaux or Bergerac — both well served from major US airports via Paris or
London — or arrive by train from Paris. Elisabeth is happy to advise on travel and either
she or John will personally collect you from a nearby station or airport.
Everything You Need to Know
Who it’s for:
Serious adult amateur flutists from intermediate to advanced
level. Elisabeth tailors every session to where you are and where you want to go.
Group size:
Deliberately small by design. Individual attention is guaranteed
from day one.
Before you arrive:
A group Zoom meeting with Elisabeth so you can meet your
fellow flutists and share your needs, aspirations and questions before you arrive.
Accommodation:
Ensuite rooms at L’Etape Gasconne, a pleasant hotel one
minute’s walk from the studio. Approximately US$70 per night, booked direct
with the hotel. Twin rooms available if sharing with a friend.
What’s included:
All tuition, coaching and concerts. Refreshments, gourmet
lunches and dinner daily, including wine. A meal at an excellent local restaurant,
side visit to a local point of interest, a private wine tasting, and a final celebration
dinner are also included in the course fee.
Travel:
Fly into Bordeaux or Bergerac. Airport transfers included on
recommended flights. Elisabeth is happy to advise on travel from anywhere in
North America.
Partners:
Very welcome. They join for meals, concerts, and social activities. A
small additional charge covers meals and transport.
Are you ready to join us for Flutes in France?
Places on 2027 courses are limited and most participants book their place for the
following year before they’ve even left France. Apply now, or simply get in touch —
Elisabeth loves hearing from players who are thinking about joining.