Gwen Klassen

Biography

Gwen Klassen is a an accomplished classical musician (Master of Music; Northwestern University), employed by the Calgary Phil as a recording and performing artist for over 28 years, and by the University of Calgary as a Sessional Instructor for over 20 years.  Gwen is passionate about teaching and performing female and BIPOC composers' works.

In addition to successfully performing all (except Daphnis) of the orchestral excerpts as principal flute/second flute/solo piccolo, Gwen has performed 8 concerti with the Calgary Phil, with many positive reviews in the Calgary Herald and Vancouver Sun. As a Chamber musician, Gwen has performed most of the flute repertoire, recorded for CBC, independent labels, and she recorded a CD with William Bennett, Lorna McGhee, and Colleen Athparia  for the Pender Island Flute Retreat. Gwen also produced the album. Ms. Klassen is a Founding member of the chamber group Rosa Selvatica, has performed in recital for the University of Calgary Celebrity Series and Instrumental Society of Calgary many times.

As a teacher, Ms. Klassen's student have gone on to win orchestra and teaching positions, competing successfully in National and International competitions, as well as being accepted to prestigious graduate schools. Gwen is a lifelong learner and is committed to both excellence and compassion in service of music and the community.

Gwen has published articles with Flutist Quarterly (USA flute society), PAN (British flute society), Orchestra Canadienne Symphony Musicians and Prelude Magazine (Calgary Phil).  In August 2023, Ms. Klassen presented a workshop at the National Flute Convention (US) with the support of the Alberta Foundation for the Arts grant. 

​Gwen is also contracted independently as a Wellness and Leadership Coach/Facilitator, and has extensive administrative experience as the Founder and Director (producing, developing, fundraising, grant writer, marketing, bookkeeping, performing, teaching) of the highly successful and original Pender Island Flute Retreat Inc 2009-2021.  The integrative, nuanced, paradoxical wisdom gathered from all Gwen’s experiences, expertise and education is the foundation of her performing, teaching and coaching career.

Ms. Klassen is a founding member of Calgary Phil's Health & Wellness and Anti Racist Equity Diversity and Inclusion committees. Gwen has produced and performed in several fundraising recitals for the Cochrane Humane Society, Pender Island Flute Retreat, Red River Relief, Syrian Refugees. She is also Certified Life Coach (ILCT), facilitator, Reiki Master, and Certified End of Life Doula.