A global celebration of those who inspire, create, and elevate the art of the flute.
Yulia Berry
Founder & Host, Global Flute Excellence AwardsGlobal audience reached
Connecting flutists, makers, and educators across continents through a shared celebration of excellence
The Global Flute Excellence Awards represent a groundbreaking moment in the history of our art — the first initiative ever to recognize flute excellence worldwide within a single year. This historic event honors 11 exceptional individuals and ensembles across 10 categories, celebrating their remarkable artistry, innovation, and contributions to the flute world in 2024.
Between December 1 and December 31, 2024, nominations poured in from flute enthusiasts and professionals around the globe. Each nomination reflected the deep admiration, respect, and unity of the international flute community — a true testament to the passion that drives the future of flute music.
In the Emerging Artist of the Year category, the competition was extraordinarily close, with only a 0.1% difference separating the top two nominees. After thoughtful deliberation, the organizers and Honorary Chairs chose to honor both artists, recognizing their exceptional achievements and contributions. This decision made the category uniquely inspiring — a shared celebration of emerging talent.
The Judging Panel comprised 52 distinguished experts representing 19 countries, reflecting the extraordinary diversity and expertise of the global flute community. We extend our heartfelt thanks to every judge who dedicated their time, insight, and care to reviewing the nominations and casting their votes — ensuring a process marked by fairness, integrity, and profound respect for artistic excellence.
This landmark achievement was made possible through the tireless efforts of the organizers, whose vision and dedication transformed an idea into a global movement. Special gratitude goes to the hosting platform, Flute Almanac — a beacon of innovation and connection in the flute world. With its worldwide reach, visionary content, and unwavering commitment to celebrating the flute, Flute Almanac has redefined how our art can be shared and appreciated across cultures.
2024 Honorees
Sir James Galway
SwitzerlandSir James Galway, affectionately known as “The Man with the Golden Flute,” is one of the most celebrated and influential flutists in history. His brilliant artistry, warm tone, and magnetic stage presence have inspired generations of musicians and audiences worldwide.
With an illustrious career spanning over six decades, Galway has performed with the world’s leading orchestras, recorded an expansive catalogue of solo and collaborative works, and brought the flute to unprecedented popularity across genres. Beyond his legendary performances, he has dedicated himself to education and outreach, shaping countless flutists through his masterclasses, recordings, and mentorship.
The Global Flute Excellence Awards proudly honors Sir James Galway with the Lifetime Achievement Award 2024, in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to flute performance, education, and artistry — leaving an indelible mark on the global flute community.
Award Presented: January 10, 2025
Stefán Ragnar Höskuldsson
Iceland - United StatesStefán Ragnar Höskuldsson, Principal Flute of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra (currently Soloist of the Berlin Philharmonic), stands among the most distinguished flutists of his generation. His artistry combines exceptional technical mastery with rare poetic depth, captivating audiences through performances of both power and refinement.
A sought-after soloist, chamber musician, and educator, Höskuldsson has expanded the modern flute repertoire with remarkable interpretations and collaborations. His premiere of Lowell Liebermann’s new Flute Concerto showcased his profound musicality and fearless command of the instrument, earning admiration from flutists and composers worldwide.
The Global Flute Excellence Awards recognizes Stefán Ragnar Höskuldsson as Performer of the Year 2024 for his extraordinary artistry, expressive integrity, and unwavering dedication to musical excellence that continues to inspire the global flute community.
Award Presented: January 10, 2025
Lowell Liebermann
United StatesLowell Liebermann is one of America’s most distinguished living composers, admired for his lyrical voice, emotional depth, and refined craftsmanship. His works reveal a rare balance of modern intensity and classical elegance, performed by leading flutists and orchestras worldwide.
The Global Flute Excellence Awards honors Lowell Liebermann as Composer of the Year 2024 for his visionary artistry and remarkable contribution to the flute repertoire, including the Flute Sonata, Flute Concerto No. 1, and Flute Concerto No. 2, premiered in 2024 by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra with Stefán Ragnar Höskuldsson.
His music continues to elevate the expressive and emotional power of the flute.
Award Presented: January 10, 2025
Kathy Blocki
United StatesKathy Blocki is internationally recognized for her outstanding contributions to flute pedagogy and her innovative approach to teaching. Through her engaging methods and inspiring educational materials, she has helped shape generations of flutists and made flute learning accessible to students of all ages.
The Global Flute Excellence Awards proudly honors Kathy Blocki as Teacher of the Year 2024 in recognition of her creativity, dedication, and lasting impact on flute education worldwide. Her passion continues to elevate the art of teaching and nurture the next generation of musicians.
Award Presented: January 10, 2025
Emanuel Flutes
United StatesEmanuel Flutes, founded by Master craftsman Emanuel Arista, represents the pinnacle of artistry, precision, and innovation in modern flute making. Each instrument is handcrafted in its entirety by Arista himself, reflecting an uncompromising dedication to tonal beauty and mechanical perfection.
In 2024, Emanuel Flutes achieved a remarkable milestone with the creation of the first solid 22K gold headjoint — a testament to visionary craftsmanship that redefines the boundaries of sound and design. This accomplishment continues to inspire flutists and makers alike, setting a new global standard for excellence.
Award Presented: January 10, 2025
Voice dell’Anima
Russia - SwitzerlandVoice dell’Anima, the creative collaboration of Sofia de Salis and Kirill Bogomilov, has redefined the boundaries of contemporary flute performance through a pioneering fusion of live flute improvisation, ethnic instruments, and electronic soundscapes. Their work transcends traditional genres, weaving meditative and spiritual dimensions into modern artistry.
The Global Flute Excellence Awards recognizes Voice dell’Anima as Innovator of the Year 2024 for their groundbreaking contributions to creative performance and for inspiring a new generation of flutists to explore sound, connection, and emotion through innovation.
Award Presented: January 10, 2025
Francesco Belfiore
ItalyFrancesco Belfiore is recognized for his outstanding dedication to preserving and promoting the traverso and historical flute performance.
Through his visionary platform TraversoPractice.net, he has built a global resource that connects musicians, provides innovative educational tools, and inspires new generations to explore Baroque and Classical traditions.
The Global Flute Excellence Awards honors Francesco Belfiore with the Flute Advocate Award 2024 for his exceptional commitment to flute heritage, education, and advocacy. His work bridges past and present, fostering international dialogue and keeping historical performance vibrant in today’s world.
Award Presented: January 10, 2025
Anton Kushnir
UkraineAnton Kushnir is recognized for his remarkable vision and resilience in founding the Ukrainian Flute Society during a time of extraordinary challenges. His unwavering dedication united flutists across his nation and beyond, creating a community built on hope, collaboration, and the healing strength of music.
The Global Flute Excellence Awards proudly honors Anton Kushnir with the Inspirational Story Award 2024 for his extraordinary leadership and faith in the unifying power of art. His story continues to inspire musicians worldwide to persevere, create, and uplift through music.
Award Presented: January 10, 2025
Valerie Teresa Walter
GermanyValerie Teresa Walter has distinguished herself as one of the most promising flutists of her generation. Known for her versatility, expressive depth, and captivating performances, she combines technical mastery with genuine musical insight, earning recognition on the international stage.
The Global Flute Excellence Awards proudly honors Valerie Teresa Walter as Emerging Artist of the Year 2024 in recognition of her exceptional artistry, leadership, and inspiring achievements as a rising voice in the world of the flute.
Award Presented: January 10, 2025
Nikka Gershman
United StatesAt just 17 years old, Nikka Gershman has already captivated audiences worldwide with her virtuosity, expressive artistry, and dedication to making music accessible to all. A passionate performer and creative leader, she is recognized for her commitment to expanding the flute repertoire and inspiring the next generation of flutists.
The Global Flute Excellence Awards proudly honors Nikka Gershman as Emerging Artist of the Year 2024 for her extraordinary achievements, artistic innovation, and exceptional influence as one of today’s most inspiring young flutists.
Award Presented: January 10, 2025
Post Tenebras Flûtes
SwitzerlandPost Tenebras Flûtes is recognized for its exceptional artistry, collaborative spirit, and imaginative programming that have revitalized the flute ensemble repertoire.
Through their expressive performances and dedication to musical innovation, the ensemble continues to inspire audiences and expand the creative boundaries of flute chamber music.
The Global Flute Excellence Awards proudly honors Post Tenebras Flûtes as Ensemble of the Year 2024, in recognition of their outstanding contribution to performance, education, and the advancement of flute ensemble artistry on the global stage.
Award Presented: January 10, 2025Judging Panel
The selection process for the Global Flute Excellence Awards was designed to be rigorous, transparent, and impartial.
Judges were chosen according to highly specific criteria and a shared commitment to artistic integrity, innovation, and educational excellence.
Evaluation Criteria
Each nomination was assessed with meticulous care, based on the following standards:
- Recognizing excellence in artistry, innovation, or education.
- Measuring the impact and influence of nominees on the global flute community.
- Evaluating contributions to the advancement of the flute on an international scale.
- Considering the overall quality and significance of each nomination.
Judges were carefully assigned to categories where they could remain neutral, ensuring fairness in every decision.
If a judge was nominated for an award, they were excluded from voting in that category to maintain complete objectivity. To further protect the integrity of the process, all judges were asked to keep their role confidential, preventing any external influence or pressure.
Each criterion carried a specific weight and was scored on a precisely designed scale.
To guarantee accuracy and impartiality, the results were submitted to a professional statistician for independent analysis and calculation.
This system eliminated the potential for human bias and ensured that each winner genuinely represents the pinnacle of excellence in their category.
The Judging Panel includes 52 distinguished individuals representing 19 countries, reflecting the true global diversity and expertise of today’s flute community.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all judges who devoted their time, insight, and experience to evaluating each nomination with integrity and care.
Sir James Galway
HONORARY CHAIR
Lady Jeanne Galway
Honorary Chair
Marco Gaudino
Chair of the Judging Panel
Yulia Berry
Founder & host- Adorján, András (Germany)
- Arista, Emanuel (USA)
- Ayscue, Ronna (USA)
- Barile, Claudio (Argentina)
- Bayramogullari, Lelya (Turkey)
- Barta, Steve (USA)
- Belfiore, Francesco (Italy)
- Bovini, Marianna (Italy)
- Campitelli, Vilma (Italy)
- Conforti, Cosimina Antonella (Italy)
- Carranza Cueto, Manuel (Peru)
- Conti, Stefano (Italy)
- Correia, Jorge Salgado (Portugal)
- Cristaldi, Corrado (Italy)
- Czeloth-Csetényi, Gyula (Hungary)
- Dalmoro, Paolo (Italy)
- D’Hollander, Berten (Belgium)
- de Pijper, Rogier (The Netherlands)
- de Salis, Sofia (Switzerland)
- Doppler, Ulrich (Germany)
- Felicioni, Marco (Italy)
- Ghiani, Riccardo (Italy)
- Guerra, Elisa (Spain)
- Guido, Francesco (Italy)
- Khudiakov, Oleg (Russia)
- Kushnir, Anton (Ukraine)
- Lane, Tim (USA)
- Maclagan, Susan (Canada)
- Magalif, Eugene (USA)
- Manuel, Oscar (Spain)
- Masi, Laurent (Italy)
- Miilmann, Ulla (Denmark)
- Montafia, Claudio (Italy)
- Narcisi, Lello (Italy)
- Nekipelova, Irina (Russia)
- Noyce, Rik (USA)
- Peskina, Polina (Switzerland)
- Prytula, Viktor (Ukraine)
- Sartori, Enrico (China)
- Szabolcs, Szilágyi (Hungary)
- Sytianko, Oleg (Finland)
- Tami, Eduardo (Argentina)
- Valerio, Niccolò (Italy)
- Vologdina, Marina (Russia)
- Weiss, Alan (USA)
- Wheeler, Vic (USA)
Voices of Excellence
The Global Flute Excellence Awards stand as a distinguished celebration of artistry, innovation, and integrity in the world of flute music. Each reflection below offers a glimpse into the shared passion that unites performers, composers, educators, and makers across continents. Together, their words illuminate the spirit of collaboration, gratitude, and dedication that define this global initiative.
Oscar de Manuel
I am sincerely grateful for this recognition and extend my congratulations to Lowell Liebermann, a truly outstanding composer. It has been an honor to be the only Spanish nominee and to represent symphonic flamenco and the flamenco flute. My appreciation goes to Yulia Berry for her vision and dedication—this much-needed event brings visibility to so much art and to flutists around the world.
Nominee, Best Composer of 2024 - Spain
Valerie Teresa Walter
I am deeply honored to be named Emerging Artist of the Year 2024 at the Global Flute Excellence Awards. This recognition marks a meaningful conclusion to a remarkable musical year and a wonderful beginning to the next. My heartfelt thanks go to the entire jury, including Sir James and Lady Jeanne Galway, Marco Gaudino, Yulia Berry, and all the distinguished judges. I also extend my warmest congratulations to all fellow nominees and winners — what an honor to be among so many inspiring artists.
Honoree, Emerging Artist of The Year - Germany
Ulrich Müller-Doppler
Thank you so much for having invited me to serve as one of the judges for the Global Flute Excellence Awards. It was a true honor to be part of such a prestigious event that celebrated remarkable talent and artistry in the world of flute music. I thoroughly enjoyed contributing to this meaningful initiative and was deeply impressed by the incredible performances of the participants.
Jury Member, Global Flute Excellence Awards 2024 - Germany/Philippines
