Your retreat host: Dr. Jessica Quiñones
Originally from the deserts of New Mexico in the sunny American Southwest, it took me a while to figure out that any so called ‘traditional’, ‘classical’ flute career wouldn’t work for me as an artist.
Not that I always knew that: I am here as a result of finding 1,000 artistic ways that didn’t work first.
Instead of a formal concert hall, well, I’d also love to play for you in a relaxed intimate setting, where you are close. I want you to feel free to clap between movements, sing along, and get up and dance if it strikes you– whether I am playing the Prokofiev sonata or a Brazilian Choro.
Having delivered over 75+ professional recitals across the globe I’ve fallen in love with creating music that allows me to express spontaneity, playfulness, sensuality, improvisation and rhythmic groove in performance.
Specialising in the tango flute music of Astor Piazzolla, I earned a Ph.D. at the University of Huddersfield, UK in musicology and flute performance. I hold further flute degrees from the University of Denver’s Lamont School of Music (USA), and the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama, Glasgow.
I love sharing my knowledge from 30+ years of playing, which is why I design training courses for flute teachers, deliver academic papers, write for numerous music publications, give university workshops and regularly deliver masterclasses. I am currently based in Cornwall where I run an active flute studio teaching clients from all over the globe.
I believe that everyone has the potential to be musical and to create song. Flute playing is a celebration of your freedom, authenticity and personal expression– unique from anyone else’s on this earth. It would be an honour to work with you on this retreat.
For my full bio, visit www.JQflute.com
How Boho Flute Retreats got started
BOHO- Definition
/ˈbəʊhəʊ/
INFORMAL
- Adjective: socially unconventional in a way regarded as characteristic of creative artists; bohemian.”
- Noun: a person who is socially unconventional in a way regarded as characteristic of creative artists; a bohemian.”
On the backend of 2015, an email landed in my inbox from a London-based flautist. Her letter asked if she could come for a few days and work with me in Cornwall at my flute studio. Looking for a ‘get away from it all’ escape that combined both flute playing and fresh perspectives on her playing, she wrote that she was stuck in a musical rut verging on musical burnout— and could I help? She was hoping to learn new tools be more creative in her approach to music making and was desperate to try out some new flute techniques in a safe space. (Oh, and did I know any good accommodation, yoga classes or meditation spaces in the area, too?)
…and this was the ‘ah-ha’ moment when Boho flute retreats were born. Our first retreat launched in Spring 2016 to a sold-out crowd, and has been popular ever since.
Our Ethos
It is our desire to offer an exceptional flute experience in a beautiful scenic setting that aims to nurtures all aspects of your musicianship— from the soulful to the creative, to the corporeal to the practical. With expert practitioners to help different aspects of your playing, we design everything that we offer you in our sessions to support your (joyful, glorious, life-affirming, and inspired!) music making to be at the heart of all that we offer you.
Thanks so much Jessica. I had a fantastic time and have come home with some real focus and even more enthusiasm. I hope to see you again soon.
Say Hello & Connect
