It is with a great sense of loss that we learn that our dear colleague, mentor and friend Felix Skowronek passed away on Monday night. The Wood Flute Conference 2006 has been a special dream of his, and he discussed its implementation with us through Monday. It will serve now in part as a tribute to Felix and his devotion to so many important aspects of the flute's expressive palette and resonance. There may never have been a more ardent spokesman for wood and everything it means for the flute, as he demonstrated in the concert hall, through his scientific studies and work in the School of Forestry, his many wood-gathering excursions among the wood flute players of Europe. Felix was a pioneer, and it is gratifying that the wood flute scene has developed so in the last years, with his inspiration having played a central role.
Do join us for all or part of the conference in Seattle from June 16 to 18 at the University of Washington ... even if you don't happen to have a wooden flute or headjoint ... and we'll celebrate all aspects of the wooden Boehm-system flute while cycling through a broad range of music and topics.
You can register for the Wood Flute Conference 2006 at www.woodflutefest.com (or go to the School of Music home page at www.music.washington.edu/home/ and click on "2006 Wooden Flute Conference Information" on the right side under "Quick Links" ). Please do to contact me directly by email or at (206) 525-2216 with any questions or suggestions.
Looking forward to seeing you in June!
With best wishes,
Jeffrey Cohan