Claudia Aizaga

Flute

Check out Claudia’s Profile!

How long have you been teaching?

I have been teaching since 2013, working with students of all ages and levels in private lessons, group classes, and university settings.

Which Opus Music Academy locations do you work? Do you have your own studio? If so, where is it located? Do you offer in-home lessons?

I teach at Opus Music Academy and also have my own studio in Minneapolis and Ecuador. I primarily teach in person and online!

What instruments do you teach? Anything else you teach?

I teach flute, from beginner to advanced levels, and also coach chamber music, music theory, and contemporary techniques.

What is your studio story? How did you get to where you are now?

My journey started in Ecuador, where I fell in love with the flute. I pursued my studies in the U.S., earning my doctorate in music and gaining experience as a performer and educator. Along the way, I have been lucky to teach in various settings, from universities to community programs, shaping my teaching philosophy to be inclusive and student-centered.

What is one thing you think you do really well as a teacher?

I connect with my students on a personal level, making learning both structured and enjoyable. I also help them find confidence in their own musical voice.

What is one thing you really struggle with as a teacher?

I always want more time with my students to work on fundamentals and repertoire, so making the most of the time we have is always a great and exciting challenge!

What do you do to retain your students?

I create a positive and engaging learning environment while setting clear goals. I also keep fostering motivation and curiosity!

Share a funny music story:

A student once asked me if playing the flute meant I never ran out of breath. I joked, “Only when I’m playing!” They looked at me seriously and said, “So you could probably hold your breath forever.” If only!

What is your niche? What sets you apart from other teachers?

I specialize in contemporary music and extended techniques, I play some crazy music! And I collaborate with my composer friends to make new music together while adding electroacoustic sounds!

What is your favorite band, artist, or composer? Why?

I love classical music, but I enjoy indie music at all times!

What is something people would be surprised to learn about you?

I like to lift weights, I enjoy the challenge!

Let’s say you’re having coffee with a brand-new teacher.  What’s one piece of advice you wish you would have known when you started?

You don’t have to know everything—keep learning, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Teaching is a journey, and you grow along with your students.

Let’s say you’re visiting with a teacher who is feeling burned out. What advice would you give to them to give life to their studio?

Take a step back and reconnect with what first inspired you. Sometimes, small changes—like trying new repertoire or shifting your approach—can reignite your passion.

What do you do to inspire your students?

By showing them that music is more than just playing notes—it’s about storytelling, emotion, and expression. I also make sure to recognize their progress, no matter how small.

What is your craziest idea? What is something you would do if money, time, and space weren’t an issue?

I’d love to create an international flute retreat where students and professionals can collaborate, experiment with new sounds, and perform in incredible spaces around the world.

If you weren’t a music instructor, what else would you do with your life?

I’d probably be a chef!

Want to learn more about Claudia? Email us to find out more and to set up a free trial lesson!