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Top 10 Facts about James Galway
- The Man with the Golden Flute. James Galway plays a golden flute, which is considered his signature instrument and the reason why he got his nickname.
- Musical Background. His father was a flute player and his mother played the piano. From an early age, James was surrounded by the tradition of flute bands.
- Winner of Belfast Flute Championships. In one day, James won the junior, senior and open Belfast flute Championships. He was only 11 years old at that time.
- From Orchestra to Solo Career. Before establishing himself as a solo flute player, Galway spent 15 years as an orchestral musician. He played with the Covent Garden Opera, London Symphony Orchestra, Berlin Philharmonic under Herbert von Karajan, among others.
- Classic Meets Contemporary Music. In addition to performing standard classical repertoire, James Galway also featured contemporary music in his broadcast.
- Deep Connection with Popular Music. Galway collaborated with many popular artists, including Irish folk band The Chieftains. Their album James Galway and The Chieftains reached number 32 in the UK Albums Chart in 1987.
- One of the Best-Selling Flutists. Galway albums have sold 30 million copies that made him one of the best-selling flutists worldwide.
- Passionate Educator. James is the president of Flutewise, a charitable organisation that supports young flute players globally. In 2003, he also established the Music Education Consortium to encourage the British Government to improve music education in schools.
- The First Flute Player Knighted by Queen Elizabeth II. In 2001, James Galway was knighted for services to music.
- Always Active in Music. Now in his 80s, James keeps on leading an active creative life. His age doesn’t prevent him from performing, teaching and inspiring younger flute players.
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