I don’t think I’m alone in saying that the pandemic and subsequent semi-hibernation have found me spending a lot of time on social media. It is definitely a mixed bag for me, and I certainly find myself doing some mindless scrolling. But I also think that social media can really bring a lot of positive aspects to our lives, if we consciously curate what we give our time and attention to. This week I wanted to share with you just a few Instagram accounts that I’m enjoying right now.
Playing Without Pain (@playingwithoutpain)
This account, created by flutist and entrepreneur Francesca Leo, seeks to connect and educate musicians with resources to treat and prevent performance-related injuries. She is also passionate about maintaining good mental health, and her IG stories have a great focus on anxiety (both performance and general), body positivity, work/life balance, and self-compassion. She is an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and persons of color. Her posts and stories are always a great breath of fresh air, especially during these challenging times.
Music Strong Fitness (@musicstrongfitness)
Founded by Angela McCuiston, musician health coach and chair of the Performance Health Committee of the National Flute Association, this page is another great resource health and fitness for musicians. She offers online personal training (a bonus during COVID times!), private lessons, and tips and tricks for exercises that specifically benefit flute players, although any musician would definitely benefit from her exercises. Her stories are a great mix of inspirational thoughts and quotes and short, accessible exercises.
Trevor James Flutes (@tjflutes)
Based in London, Trevor James flutes are a great line of intermediate-professional instruments, including piccolos and alto and bass flutes. They are the low flute of choice for the Indy Flute Shop. Their account is beautifully curated with the most gorgeous pictures of their instruments, and Jean-Paul is super active with stories and posts. He is also the founder of TheHappyFlutist.com and the host of “Talking Flutes” podcast, all of which is linked on the IG page.
Barry Griffiths (@grizzlyflute)
Also hailing from the UK, Griffiths is a professional jack of all trades performer. He has made a name for himself on social media with his videos of multi-part pieces that he presents in a super unique way. They are so much fun to watch and listen to–and he is a top-notch flutist.
Karen Moratz (@kmoratz)
Finally, I would be remiss if I didn’t include Indy’s flute GOAT–performer, author, entrepreneur, and yoga teacher Karen Moratz. Her IG page is chock full of yoga awesomeness; she has been hosting free IG Live yoga sessions every Friday at 1pm Eastern time. Remember to tune in to her Win-D-Fender talk and mini recital on Tuesday the 18th on our Facebook page!