GAYLORD — At 18 years of age, musician Joel Charboneau is the only high school flutist selected for the Blue Lake international program which sets out for the Blue Lake European Tour in June.

    The opportunity for the Gaylord High School senior does not come without commitment: several hours a day of practice, and $5,200 to get him there. That’s why young Charboneau is presenting a benefit flute recital on Friday, April 25 at St. Mary Cathedral. He’ll be accompanied by Wayne Wyrembelski for the 7 p.m. concert.

According to Charboneau, who has been playing the flute since he was 8, he learned  the first chair in the international orchestra is a college professor and second chair, a college flutist. “I was very pleased,” he said of his earning a chair in the orchestra.

The young musician, the son of Ryan and Margie Charboneau, will depart Gaylord on June 6, leave for Europe on June 16, and return on July 11. The tour will take the orchestra to three countries for six- or seven-night stays. He’s not yet learned their destinations, but will know more when rehearsals begin April 20.

Charboneau aspires to a professional music career. He plans to study music composition at Olivet Nazarene University after graduation and plans to audition for Julliard School of Music next spring.

As for his April 25 performance, Charboneau described the evening’s repertoire as “more contemporary,” with the oldest selection dating back only 60 years. “It’s melodic, a lot of pretty melodies,” he promised. Kokopeli, a tribal Native American sound, will be among his selections.

Charboneau expressed gratitude for the support of his parents, friends, GHS faculty members and members of Gaylord Community Church.

Admission to the recital is by donation; those unable to attend but still wishing to support Charboneau’s tour may send donations to Joel Charboneau, 4884 E. M-32 Gaylord, MI 49735.

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