Our Instructors

Flute Instructor

Sarah Bell

Sarah Bell is a classically trained flautist. She completed her Bachelor of Music in Musical Arts from Kwantlen Polytechnic University in 2020, as well as a Diploma in Music. Sarah is also familiar with the Royal Conservatory program, having received First Class Honours in Grade 8 flute and Honours in Grade 8 theory.

As a teacher, her goal is to help students understand the music beyond the printed notes on a piece of paper. In addition to teaching the mechanics of how to physically play the flute, her students learn how attention to detail in music enhances the way that a composition (or even an exercise) shapes sound. Experimentation is a key part of her classes where students are encouraged to try different techniques (such as additional dynamics) to develop precise control of their creativity. Wherever a student is in their flute journey, she will provide the tools for them to grow their artistry.

Her own flute journey continued into university (where she studied with Paolo Bortolussi) and in advanced summer lessons (Carmen Roberts) where she discovered that she could be more effective in learning music if she learned the boring parts that went along with it – music theory and scales. Difficult passages were simplified when it was recognized as a simple G major scale that happened to start with a different pitch. When a student recognizes a pattern, they can practice more effectively and learn music that is more detailed.

In addition to teaching, she plays with the Fraser Valley Wind Ensemble and Trinity Western Orchestra. When not teaching, practicing, or in rehearsals, other activities include reading music biographies and science fiction novels, and enjoying time with friends and family (and the cat!)