Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Crawford.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Being surrounded by a musically enriched family, I always felt destined to pave my unique path in this craft. I picked up the flute at age 11 after seeing the Disney film, “Pocahontas.” Indigenous music typically consists of different percussive and flute elements. Hearing that instrument for the first time blew my mind. I had to have it. I told my Dad about it, and what seemed like the next day, he came home with a brand new flute and the “Essential Elements” book. From that day, I’ve never put it down and have since used my gift as a gateway to musical performance, education, and beyond.
I’m a first-generation graduate of Tennessee State University (2011), and I received my Master’s degree from Belmont University (2014). These two institutions were pivotal in shaping me into the musician and artist I am today.
Since receiving my degrees, I’ve expanded my reach in education by serving as a visiting music tutor/instructor in Metro Nashville Public and Memphis Shelby County School districts. I also launched my private studio, embarking on the journey of entrepreneurship that would later take me beyond my wildest dreams.
My educational career came full circle when I became the flute professor at Tennessee State University. Since then, I’ve led and directed the Nashville Philharmonic Flute Ensemble (2016-2024) and co-founded and served as president of the Nashville African American Wind Symphony, Inc. (2020-2024).
This journey took off in 2017 after the viral #MaskOffChallenge. No one knew who I was in the video, and dubbed me “FluteBae.” I thought, “Oh wow! That’s cool!” I took it and ran with it. Ever since, my now trademarked brand has taken me to the Staples Center performing the national anthem for both the NBA and WNBA, the Grand Ole Opry, Historic Ryman Auditorium, national and international conferences such as the National Flute Association and MIdwest Band and Orchestra clinic, being a featured artist in publications such as “Flute View,” “The Flute Examiner,” the 2023 “People Issue” of the Nashville Scene, “Urbannite,” NPR, and WPLN.
I’ve worked with several artists and producers such as Kenny Lattimore, Chuck Harmony, Old Crow Medicine, Derrick Hodges, Daru Jones, The Shindellas, and more. From being a featured artist on a Grammy-Award winning album (Urban Hymnal by the Artistocrat of Bands) to becoming the first African American to receive the Encore Award from Belmont University, my journey as “FluteBae” has continued to surprise me.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Absolutely not. There have been many trials and tribulations in finding my version of success in music. Being classically trained, you’re taught that success is linear. Perfection is the only guaranteed path to realize it. Following this path almost broke me. I faced rejection after rejection and began to question if the purpose I’d chosen was a mistake.
After some time and the viral “Mask Off” moment, I realized perfection was overrated. No one cared how “trained” I was. Sure, they acknowledged it, but my playing made them feel something. In that moment, I wasn’t concerned about correct notes or presentation; I was simply having fun being myself and embodying the instrument.
That was the path to MY success. Authenticity, not perfection.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m an educator, artist, creative, and musical director.
I will teach and pour into someone everything I know about the flute and music. My students give my work meaning. Their enthusiasm and love for flute is a daily reminder that what I do in this world matters. They support what I do as “FluteBae,” and sometimes, that’s the reminder I need to keep going.
I’ve created my own sound by fusing classical flute with jazz, soul, hip-hop, R&B, country, and more. I’m known for my unorthodox and courageous stage presence while playing. My creativity sets me apart in how I present my brand both on and off line.
I’m proud of how I continue challenging myself to push and expand my brand.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I don’t believe in “good luck” or “bad luck,” only preparation and opportunity.
I’ve spent many years preparing for the opportunities presented to me and have also missed out on those I wasn’t prepared for.
That lack of preparation stemmed from fear, doubt, and questioning my self-worth. It was the moments when I trusted my work and was confident in what I brought to the table that opportunities took flight.
Pricing:
- Studio sessions – $400
- Special Occasions – $400+
- Private Lessons – $75+
- Masterclasses/Clinics – $400+
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.flutebae.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/profflutebae
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FluteBaeOfficial
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/flutebae
