As the Global Flute Excellence Awards continue to grow in scope, visibility, and international impact, we are honored to introduce the distinguished individuals who serve as Honorary Patrons — respected figures whose artistic stature, integrity, and leadership strengthen the foundation of this global initiative.

The Honorary Patrons represent excellence at the highest level. Their presence affirms the Awards’ mission: to celebrate those who elevate the flute world worldwide through artistry, education, innovation, craftsmanship, and advocacy.

We are still in the process of inviting and confirming additional Honorary Patrons, and this list will continue to expand as our global network grows.

Honorary Chairs

Sir James Galway & Lady Jeanne Galway

At the highest level of leadership, the Awards are guided by our Honorary Chairs, Sir James Galway and Lady Jeanne Galway.
Their legendary artistry, decades of international influence, and tireless advocacy for the flute community make them symbols of excellence for flutists around the world.

Their support elevates the entire initiative and ensures that the Awards remain aligned with the highest artistic and ethical standards.

Honorary Patrons

Denis Verroust

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Widely respected as a leading authority on flute history and cultural heritage, Denis Verroust has dedicated his career to documenting and preserving the legacy of the instrument. As Founder and President of the Jean-Pierre Rampal Association and Artistic Director of La Traversière, he has played a central role in shaping France’s major flute initiatives. As an Honorary Patron, he embodies the heritage, scholarship, and artistic values celebrated by the Awards.

András Adorján

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Widely recognized as one of the most influential flutists of our time, András Adorján has shaped contemporary flute performance, scholarship, and education across Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
His extensive discography, editorial work, and contributions to historical knowledge have influenced generations of musicians.
As an Honorary Patron, he brings unmatched artistic authority and international perspective to the Awards.

Lowell Liebermann

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One of the most performed and recorded American composers of his generation, Lowell Liebermann has enriched the flute repertoire with landmark works such as the Sonata for Flute and Piano, Op. 23, Concerto for Flute and Orchestra, Op. 39, Piccolo Concerto, Op. 50, Eight Pieces for Solo Flute, Op. 59 and Concerto for Flute and Orchestra No. 2, Op.142.
His music is performed worldwide, bridging virtuosity, lyricism, and contemporary expression.
As an Honorary Patron, he represents the powerful synergy between composers and performers that continues to define the evolution of the flute.

Shigenori Kudo

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Internationally celebrated for his luminous sound and refined musicianship, Shigenori Kudo is recognized as one of the foremost flutists of his generation. A winner of the 2nd Paris International Flute Competition and the inaugural Jean-Pierre Rampal International Flute Competition, he has performed in more than 180 cities worldwide and recorded over 70 acclaimed albums. As a dedicated teacher and visiting professor, he has influenced flutists across Asia, Europe, and beyond.

As an Honorary Patron, he brings global perspective, artistic excellence, and a lifelong commitment to the advancement of the flute.

A Growing Global Circle

The Honorary Patrons serve as ambassadors of the Global Flute Excellence Awards, lending their expertise, legacy, and international visibility to this rapidly expanding initiative.
With participants from 252 countries and territories, the Awards rely on the guidance of leaders whose influence transcends borders and traditions.

The Awards will further strengthen our  Visionaries’ global foundation, ensuring that the program continues to honor excellence with integrity, inclusivity, and a truly worldwide vision.

How the judging works

A Message of Gratitude

We extend our deepest appreciation to our Honorary Chairs and Honorary Patrons for their trust, support, and leadership.
Their presence illuminates the mission of the Global Flute Excellence Awards:
to celebrate extraordinary achievement in all its forms and to inspire the flute community across the world.