Chantal Balta Flute Lessons
About
I prefer to instruct intermediate flute players, though I love working with flute players of all experiences. I have experience with orchestras and wind ensembles, and I am currently employed as a musician with the Air National Guard Band of the West Coast. I look forward to sharing the experiences and teaching techniques I've learned over my ten years of playing the flute.
As a member of a military band for three years, I often need to adapt to different ensembles. Primarily I have been playing as a duo with a bassoon, augmented brass quintets, and playing in woodwind quintets. Each group composition poses unique challenges, so a player becomes "comfortable with being uncomfortable" as the way to grow as both a musician and as a person! Music is an avenue to personal growth and self-expression, and it's wonderful that growth can be achieved regardless of playing professionally or just for yourself! Whether it's playing a solo for a school concert, wanting to jam out with a fellow musician, or playing for fun, I am excited to help guide you where you want to be.
Highlights
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Our first lesson will involve very little playing - I take this time to get to know the student's experience in playing, what they have accomplished with their previous private lesson teacher, and any goals that they have for themselves. We would then formulate a plan, both short-term and long-term, to carry out future lessons, if applicable.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have studied under Karmen Gould (formerly Karmen Suter) for four years within high school and some college. I have played in honor bands, wind ensembles, orchestras, and chamber groups throughout my music career. Currently, I am a military member of the Air National Guard Band of the West Coast. I am involved with combo groups, woodwind quintets, and the concert band. Additionally, I have given masterclasses to high school students, expounding upon technique, style, tone, and other fundamentals to successful playing.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Pricing will depend on whether the student is looking for a one-off lesson or a long-term journey. I charge slightly more for one-time lessons than I do long-term lessons.
For the latter, because the first lesson would involve little to no playing, the first lesson will be discounted. This is because we want to find out whether or not the student and teacher would be a good fit, a consultation or trial-lesson essentially.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have mostly worked with high school students in my years of teaching. Typically, we've worked towards refining audition repertoire for auditions, university applications and boards, and other flute progressions towards advanced-level playing.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
The biggest piece of advice I can offer is to make sure you feel comfortable but challenged to grow and develop as a musician with your prospective teacher. You want to be able to talk freely and communicate effectively without fear of judgement, but also you want a teacher who pushes you to your potential.