Philip Dikeman

Philip Dikeman, who begins his first year as Associate Professor of Flute at The Blair School of Music, was a member of Detroit Symphony Orchestra for almost 20 years. During his tenure with the DSO, he held the position of Assistant Principal Flute as well as Acting Principal Flute for his final two seasons. He also appeared as concerto soloist with the DSO on five occasions and took part in their more recent Florida, New York City/Carnegie Hall, European and Asian tours.

Mr. Dikeman attended the Oberlin College Conservatory of Music, where he studied with Robert Willoughby and received his Bachelor’s of Music. He received his Master’s of Music from the Yale School of Music, studying with Thomas Nyfenger. He was named the George Wellington Memorial Scholar for his outstanding musical and academic excellence upon completion of his degree at Yale University.

Immediately after graduation, Philip began his professional career when he was appointed Principal Flute of the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra, a position he held for five seasons. Prior to joining the Detroit Symphony in the fall of 1992, he played Principal Flute for a short time with the San Antonio Symphony. He has also played Guest Principal Flute with both the Minnesota Orchestra and the St. Louis Symphony. Recently he also joined the Los Angeles Philharmonic on its 2010 U.S Tour as Guest Associate Principal Flutist, playing under Maestro Gustavo Dudamel.

In competition, Mr. Dikeman holds the distinction of having won first prize in both the National Flute Association’s (NFA) Young Artist and Orchestral Audition Competitions.

In chamber music, Mr. Dikeman was a member of the Detroit Chamber Winds & Strings for 18 seasons. His performances with DCWS included regular appearances on their subscription series, as well as numerous tours including Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall and Lucerne, Switzerland. He has also been a featured performer for the Great Lakes Chamber Music Festival on numerous occasions since 1994. He has made recital and masterclass appearances throughout the United States, including Los Angeles, Boston, Cleveland and Interlochen. Additionally, while living in Hong Kong he gave numerous solo performances and taught throughout the region. In spring 2012, he will be the special Guest Artist at the invitation of the Chicago Flute Club.

If you are interested in applying to the Flute Program at Blair and would like to discuss the possibility of an introductory SKYPE lesson prior to a formal audition, please contact Mr. Dikeman at Philip.Dikeman@vanderbilt.edu.