Our founders, Nancy Haga and Brent Haines, had an idea to somehow bring flute players together. That idea turned into the Summer Solstice Flute School in 2013. Over the year’s it grew to include award-winning recording artists, Native healers, and vendors who served as instructors and mentors. This combination brought in students of all skill levels from around the United States and the World. Solstice went on to become a 501(c)3 non-profit organization under the name of Where Passion Meets Purpose, went through variations of the Solstice name and was held in several locations across the state of Utah.
Time for a Change…
Solstice moved to a new, permanent home in Prescott, Arizona in 2023. Hotel locations were left behind and Chapel Rock Camp and Conference Center became home. Surrounded by the Bradshaw Mountains, the area is steeped in history and surrounded by nature which provided the opportunity to offer a totally immersive experience. When Nancy retired in August 2024. the torch was passed on to a new Executive Director along with her request, “Keep Solstice alive and take it to the next level.”
New Beginnings…
Kelly Kennedy from Prescott, Arizona, took on the role as the new Executive Director. Solstice was rebranded, Solstice Flute Camp to better reflect the setting and experiences that the Prescott location offered. New and additional Board Members were added, our instructors were invited to be more involved, our vendors were asked for input, and volunteers were recruited. Sponsorships and partnerships were developed within the community and across the country.
Our extensive team building for 2024/2025, resulted in the introduction of new and additional programs at flute camp; enhanced lodging and facility options at Chapel Rock and a partnership with a local hotel for those who wish to stay off-site; updates to our tech and website; development of an active social media outreach program; promotion of our vendors resulting in placement of their products in several galleries and stores in northern Arizona; a grant award from the Office of Tourism in Prescott, Arizona; donations and sponsorships from the community.
New for 2025/2026…
A new logo was developed to better reflect who and what we are. Solstice Alumni and the local Yavapai Flute Circle teamed to perform a concert at Harvest Festival 2025 in Prescott which resulted in invitations to play at other venues for 2026. We are receiving invitations for our pro instructors to perform at other times and venues in the community. Through sponsor and partnership building, Solstice Flute Camp will be opening a brick-and-mortar office with other non-profits in the Natural History Institute January 1, 2026. This will help to give Solstice Flute Camp an increased presence in the community to foster future partnerships, promoting both, our organization and the joy of the flute. Additionally, our annual concert location will be moved to The Federal, a beautiful historic preservation project in downtown Prescott on August 21, 2026. Another great way to share our message. And this is just the beginning for this season.
Together, the Solstice Team continues working to honor all of the good from our past, while enhancing the Solstice Flute Camp experience for all who are touched by it now and in the years to come!