William Kincaid (artist)

William Kincaid (1895 – 1967) was an American flutist and pedagogue, considered by many to be the "father of the American school" of flute playing. Born in Millersburg, Pennsylvania, he studied with George Barrère, principal flutist of the New York Symphony Orchestra, and achieved prominence as the principal flutist of the Philadelphia Orchestra from 1921 until 1960, under conductors Leopold Stokowski and Eugene Ormandy.

Kincaid's playing was characterized by its warm, singing tone, impeccable technique, and expressive phrasing. He emphasized breath control, tone production, and musicality above all else. He significantly influenced flute playing through his teaching at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia, where he trained generations of flutists who went on to prominent positions in orchestras and as soloists worldwide. His students included Julius Baker, Elaine Shaffer, and many others who shaped the landscape of 20th and 21st-century flute performance.

Beyond his orchestral and teaching careers, Kincaid also performed as a soloist and chamber musician. He commissioned several works for the flute and championed the instrument throughout his life. His pedagogical methods and musical philosophy continue to influence flute players today, securing his legacy as one of the most important figures in the history of the instrument. His editions of flute repertoire are still widely used, particularly those published by the Music Library of America.