FLUTE LESSONS
Flute lessons provide students of all ages and skill levels with comprehensive and personalized instruction in a supportive and structured environment. With a methodical and systematic approach, Tyler helps students to set and achieve specific goals based on their individual needs and aspirations. Utilizing virtual lessons, Tyler offers a flexible and convenient way for students to learn from anywhere and on their own schedule.
Students learn how to practice systematically and effectively, from mastering the fundamentals to preparing for auditions and competitions. This ensures that students not only progress in their flute playing, but also develop the discipline, focus, and insight as to how continue learning music throughout the rest of their lives.
Tyler McKinion is a wonderful flute teacher. I highly recommend him to any young, aspiring flute players.
Learning the flute can be a challenging process, so it is especially important that students find a teacher with whom they can form a strong chemistry in the classroom. Students have individualized attention to ensure that they are progressing and achieving the goals they set out to accomplish. Students have access to world-class instruction and educational programming, including letters of recommendation, competition preparation, and weekly office hours.
The transformative power of flute lessons extends far beyond the technical aspects of playing the instrument. They offer valuable life skills and experiences that can benefit everyone, regardless of age or background. The process of learning and mastering the flute fosters self-discipline, self-expression, and personal growth, providing a rich and rewarding journey that is accessible to all.
I first chose to play the flute just to get into a good art and music school. I didn’t like it at all, but after my first lesson with Tyler, I was hooked. He took his time through lessons and was very patient with me. After the first couple of lessons, I developed a strong passion for the flute. Every note I learned was like putting a puzzle together. Every time I play the flute, my love for the instrument grows stronger and stronger.
Choosing to play the flute was a decision that transformed life… Now, at 58 years old, I realize this seemingly small decision was pivotal as it in many ways improved my lot in life. I became more disciplined and competitive and my yearning for a better life grew. As I progressed and became more involved with music I met students, instructors, and musical directors from all over the country… Playing the flute is one of the greatest loves of my life and continues to nurture, heal, and improve my life.
For those aspiring to become strong flute players, engaging in consistent, high-quality flute lessons is absolutely essential. Through expert guidance and tailored instruction, students can tap into their full potential, unlocking a world of musical possibilities. Developing a solid foundation in technique, musicality, and theory is critical to achieving success in the highly competitive world of flute performance. By investing in flute lessons, students not only gain the skills necessary to excel in their craft but also acquire the tools needed for a lifetime of learning and artistic exploration.
Tyler’s commitment to providing a nurturing and empowering environment ensures that students feel supported and inspired throughout their journey. His passion for teaching the flute is evident in his approach, which emphasizes the importance of fostering a love for music and a dedication to continuous improvement. As students progress and refine their abilities, they gain confidence in their artistry and a profound sense of accomplishment, making flute lessons a truly invaluable experience for anyone seeking to become a formidable flute player.
About Tyler McKinion
Tyler McKinion is a flute player praised for his robust tone, exemplary technique, and diplomatic professionalism. He has worked extensively in chamber ensembles, performing at various venues throughout the Southwest. Tyler has been featured at events sponsored by both the George W. Bush Presidential Center and the Sandra Day O’Connor Institute.
Tyler is a highly sought-after instructor with a deep affinity and passion for music education. He has been teaching in-person and online flute lessons since 2015, providing a diverse and inclusive teaching practice that caters to flute players of all ages and skill levels. His foundational beliefs guiding his teaching are rooted in the idea that with hard work and dedication, anyone can grow into the musician of their dreams, regardless of their age or starting point.
Central to his teaching philosophy is the understanding that learning the flute is fundamentally a physical activity, requiring students to develop and nurture their mind-body connections. This approach not only helps students to build a strong technical foundation but also enables them to tap into their innate musicality and expressive capabilities. As a result, Tyler’s students consistently achieve their full potential as musicians, setting them on a path towards lifelong enjoyment and appreciation of music.
Tyler’s primary flute teachers include Beth McGraw, former flute player in the Des Moines Symphony, Albuquerque Symphony, Milwaukee Symphony, and Civic Orchestra of Chicago; Joe Corral, former flute player in the Phoenix Symphony and acclaimed jazz artist; Laurel Zucker, celebrated flute virtuoso; and Diana Morgan, former piccolo player in the San Diego Symphony and current flute and piccolo faculty at the Colburn School. He has performed in masterclasses with a number of notable artists including Jim Walker, Sarah Jackson, Rose Lombardo, Laurel Zucker, Jeffrey Barker, Cathie Apple, Joana G’froerer, Marianne Gedigian, Sharon Sparrow, Susan Hoeppner, Hannah Hammel Maser, Terri Sundberg, and Kayla Burggraf.
Tyler considers himself a lifelong learner with a diverse array of interests. He enjoys learning languages and engaging in discussions about the future of science and technology. As a futurist, he holds an optimistic view of humanity’s potential, believing that advancements in various fields will continue to improve people’s lives around the globe. This passion for learning and exploration extends beyond academics, as Tyler loves to travel and immerse himself in different cultures.
He has traveled extensively throughout Europe and Asia, experiencing the unique customs, traditions, and landscapes of numerous countries. Tyler also frequently visits Colombia, where he has formed strong connections and has been involved in both professional and personal endeavors. These experiences have enriched his life and broadened his understanding of the world, further fueling his passion for learning and personal growth.