New England Flute Institute

New England Flute Institute

The New England Flute Institute (NEFI) is dedicated to nurturing musical growth, developing performance skills, and inspiring artistic excellence in flutists of all ages and levels, from beginners to emerging professionals. Through individualized instruction, innovative educational programs, and mentorship from distinguished artists and educators, NEFI provides a comprehensive learning experience that supports every student’s musical journey.

At the heart of NEFI’s philosophy is a commitment to excellence, creativity, community, and personalized education. Every student follows a learning path tailored to their individual goals, interests, and aspirations, creating an environment where technical development and artistic expression flourish together.

A Complete Music Education

Students receive a well-rounded education that extends beyond weekly private lessons. Whether studying in person in Sharon, Massachusetts, or through online instruction worldwide, students refine their sound, technique, musicianship, sight-reading, and musical interpretation while developing the confidence and artistic skills needed for lifelong musical growth.

Private instruction is complemented by:

• Chamber music coaching
• Music theory and ear training
• Music history classes
• Ensemble performance
• Collaboration with a professional pianist
• Masterclasses and workshops
• Regular recitals and performance opportunities

Together, these experiences create an engaging and immersive educational environment that encourages both artistic and personal development.

Leadership

NEFI is led by Yulia Berry, DMA, an internationally experienced flutist, educator, author, and founder of the institute. She holds a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) degree in Flute Performance, Pedagogy, and Music Education from the Saint Petersburg State Conservatory, the highest professional academic degree in music performance and teaching.

With more than 30 years of teaching and performance experience throughout the United States, Europe, and Russia, Dr. Berry has guided students to success in prestigious ensembles, festivals, youth orchestras, competitions, and conservatory programs. Her students have earned placements in organizations including the Massachusetts Youth Wind Ensemble, Boston Youth Symphony Orchestra, New England Conservatory Youth Ensembles, Massachusetts All-State Festival, Junior and Senior District Festivals, and the Longy School of Music.

A recognized leader in music education, Dr. Berry was honored in Marquis Who’s Who (2024) and has been featured in The Flute View, Boston Magazine, Go Solo Magazine, Flute Almanac, The Babel Flute, and the Flute 360 Podcast.

Distinguished Faculty

NEFI’s educational programs are enriched through collaboration with distinguished faculty members who bring extensive professional experience to the institute.

Dr. Miles Fellenberg is a renowned collaborative pianist, lecturer, and ensemble coach whose career includes appointments and collaborations with the New England Conservatory, The Juilliard School, and the Aspen Music Festival. He provides expert coaching in collaborative performance, ensemble playing, and recital preparation.

Elizabeth Leehey, Director of the New England Chamber Music Institute, is a respected clarinetist, chamber music educator, and performance coach with more than 30 years of teaching experience. Her students have performed with leading ensembles, including the National Wind Ensemble, Boston Youth Symphony Orchestra, and New England Conservatory Youth Ensembles, while earning numerous competition awards, scholarships, and honors.

Educational Philosophy

By combining individualized instruction, distinguished faculty, collaborative learning, and diverse performance opportunities, the New England Flute Institute offers an educational experience that prepares students not only to become accomplished musicians, but confident, thoughtful, and expressive artists.