Flute, Piano
Kelly Bailey
I was born and raised in Vancouver, British Columbia. I earned my Bachelor of Music in Flute Performance from the University of British Columbia before moving to Baltimore to pursue my Master’s degree in Flute Performance at the Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University. Throughout my musical career, I have participated in numerous flute competitions, masterclasses, and performed with multiple symphony orchestras. I was nominated to represent Vancouver three times in the Vancouver Kiwanis Music Festival Performing Arts BC, where I was placed first in the Junior, Intermediate, and Senior Woodwind Divisions. I have been teaching both flute and piano since 2017. My goal is to create a fun, supportive environment where each student can thrive and reach their full potential.
When did you begin playing Flute, and why?
I began playing the flute at the age of 9. My mom is a flute teacher, so I was naturally introduced to the instrument early on. There was never any pressure for me to stick with it if I didn’t enjoy it, but I quickly fell in love with the flute and it became something I genuinely wanted to pursue as a career.
What other instruments do you play, and what is your experience with them?
I also play the piano and started lessons at the age of 10. I achieved my Royal Conservatory of Music Piano Level 8 Exam with First Class Honors and have been teaching since 2017.
What are your personal goals as a musician?
My personal goal as a musician is to play in a professional symphony orchestra someday.
Do you have a memory of a time when a musical concept or technique really clicked? Something you’ll remember forever?
My personal goal as a musician is to play in a professional symphony orchestra someday.
What is your favorite piece of advice from one of your past (or current) teachers?
Many people can play the same piece, yet it sounds completely different. Even when the notes, rhythm, and dynamics are the same, each musician brings their own interpretation and musicality, giving the piece a unique meaning. That is what makes music so special — the same piece can evoke entirely different experiences for different people.
What was your most challenging moment learning an instrument?
One of the most challenging moments for me was when I first began learning the piano. Transitioning from reading a single line of music on the flute where both hands produce one note to learning a new clef and reading two lines of music simultaneously with each hand doing something different was a significant challenge.
What is your biggest musical achievement?
My greatest musical achievement was my Master’s degree recital performance at Peabody. Having my studio mates, students, friends, and family who traveled to Baltimore to watch me perform made the experience incredibly meaningful and heartfelt, and it truly felt like a significant accomplishment.
Favorite thing about teaching?
My favorite thing about teaching is that every student learns in a unique way, which makes each lesson different and engaging. Even when I’m teaching the same piece, I tailor my approach to fit each student’s learning style, and I continue to learn alongside them as a teacher. Another rewarding aspect is seeing a concept finally click. Those moments when a student truly understands what I’m trying to convey are incredibly fulfilling and rewarding as a teacher.
What is a piece of advice you would like to share with anyone learning music?
Be confident and have fun! Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. The more questions you ask, the more you will grow as a musician.
Personal music projects: