HUNTER COLLEGE–It became a course of learning sound, technique, and artistic collaboration in a masterclass at Hunter College when Tessa Brinckman, a renowned flutist, and Kathleen Supové, an acclaimed pianist, taught an immersive session to students. Last week’s free event at Lang Recital Hall made it possible for aspiring musicians to improve their craft with two of the most innovative performers in contemporary music. The flute and piano masterclass, attended by music students and enthusiasts, was an opportunity to learn about performance, technique and music.
“I’m quite new to the flute, and while one masterclass is part of the curriculum for my degree, I want to know more, more, more,” said Jordan Harnar, a first-year music student. She chose to participate in the masterclass for both an academic obligation and a chance to improve oneself. This was the attitude of others in the audience, eager to learn from experienced performers.
Brinckman shared some tips on breath control and timing. “When I am coming up for a solo, especially a soft, exposed one, I listen to how many bars it has and how it rises and falls,” she said. “I match my breathing, incoming and outgoing, to the piano. I think that for a lot of people, it can be tough to find that balance and keep it throughout the whole performance,” she said.
