Let’s be real—when it comes to getting noticed as a classical artist, your playing needs to do the talking. Whether you’re auditioning for a college program, looking for chamber music collaborators, or trying to land performance opportunities, a well-crafted performance video can be your golden ticket. But not just any video—one that showcases your skills, musicality, and stage presence in a way that makes people want to work with you.
The good news? You don’t need a full-scale film crew or a grand concert hall to make it happen. Even as a high school musician, you can create stunning performance videos with the resources you already have. Here’s how.
1. Solo Work: Show Off Your Sound and Expression
A solo performance video is one of the most important tools in your musical portfolio. It highlights your technical ability, tone quality, and ability to interpret music on your own. Since you have access to a semi-professional studio (lucky you!), take full advantage of it. Here’s what to focus on:
- Repertoire Choice: Pick pieces that highlight both your technique and your expressive side. If you’re working on standard flute repertoire (like a Bach sonata or a movement from a Mozart concerto), those are great choices. If you want to stand out, consider recording a lesser-known contemporary work or a beautifully lyrical piece that really lets your tone shine.
- Accompaniment Matters: Since you’re looking for a pianist to collaborate with, this could be the perfect excuse to start working with one. A great accompanist not only supports your playing but also elevates the entire performance.
- Presentation & Presence: Classical musicians sometimes get a bad rap for looking too serious on stage. While you don’t need to dance around, showing engagement with the music—breathing with phrases, making eye contact with your accompanist (if applicable), and looking confident—makes a difference.
- Audio & Video Quality: Since you have access to a recording engineer, consider discussing mic placement with them to best capture the natural warmth of your flute. A well-lit, visually appealing setting also makes a stronger impression.
2. Chamber Music: The Art of Collaboration
You already know a few wind players who are interested in chamber music—this is huge! Chamber ensembles (like flute duos/trios, woodwind quintets, or mixed-instrument groups) show that you can blend, listen, and communicate musically. These skills are just as important as technical ability.
What to Record for Chamber Music Videos:
- Rehearsal Snippets: A short behind-the-scenes clip of you and your ensemble working through a phrase can be just as engaging as a polished performance. It shows that you’re a thoughtful musician who takes collaboration seriously.
- Full Performance Clips: Choose a short but exciting movement (maybe something from a Poulenc trio or a piece by Debussy) and record a high-quality video. Make sure to balance visual appeal—positioning yourselves in a way that looks professional and inviting.
- Interaction & Energy: Chamber music is all about communication. Don’t just stare at your music stand—engage with your fellow musicians. Look for moments to breathe together, cue entrances with subtle gestures, and show that you’re having fun.
3. The “Extras” That Make Your Video Stand Out
Beyond just great playing, a few small details can take your video from “nice” to “wow.”
- Attire: Dress as if you’re performing in a real recital. Even if you’re recording in a studio, presentation matters. A polished look signals professionalism.
- Angles & Editing: If possible, use multiple camera angles (or even just slight repositioning between takes) to add visual interest. A close-up on your hands for technical passages or a wider shot for expressive moments can keep viewers engaged.
- Short & Sweet: Not every video needs to be a full-length recital. A well-produced 60-second clip can be just as powerful—especially for social media or sharing with potential collaborators.
4. Where to Share Your Videos
Once you’ve put in the work, don’t just let your recordings sit on a hard drive! Share them strategically:
- Social Media: Instagram Reels, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts are great for quick, engaging clips. If you’re comfortable, post small excerpts of your performances—especially ones that highlight unique aspects of your playing.
- Personal Website or Portfolio: If you’re considering music school applications, having a simple website with a few well-chosen videos can set you apart.
- Networking & Collaboration: If you’re looking to find more chamber music partners, send clips to musicians in your community. A quick “Hey, I’m putting together a group and here’s a sample of my playing” can go a long way.
Final Thoughts: Just Start!
It’s easy to overthink performance videos—waiting for the “perfect” moment when your playing is flawless or the setup is ideal. But honestly? Just start. Record something, watch it back, and improve with each take. The more comfortable you get with being on camera, the more natural your performances will feel.
You already have a great setup: a strong foundation in flute playing, a growing network of chamber musicians, access to recording resources, and a willingness to put yourself out there. Now it’s time to hit record and show the world what you can do.
And remember—whether it’s a stunning solo sonata or a casual chamber jam session, the best performance videos don’t just showcase talent. They showcase personality, passion, and the joy of making music. So have fun with it!