Cyberfolk Fall 2001

Cyberfolk, Fall 2001

The Native American Flute

The Native American flute is a simple but beautiful instrument that has been experiencing a renaissance of sorts lately, with many folks discovering its compelling sound, meditative qualities, and cultural and spiritual significance.

Especially if you are not familiar with the music of the Native American flute, start off by listening to some at MP3.com. Browse to http://stations.mp3s.com/stations/103/native_flute_circle.html and click on "Play All Tracks Now!". This will give you about three hours worth of this hauntingly beautiful music.

For a brief history and introduction to the Native American flute, take a look at an article that appeared in Dirty Linen magazine. Find it at http://www.dirtynelson.com/linen/feature/64flute.html

A comprehensive study of the flute can be found at http://www.zadjik.com/flutes/. This site includes in depth information about history, construction, playing techniques, how to choose an instrument, flute makers, and players. Click on the Legends link to read some fascinating Native American legends about the flute.

If you think that you may be interested in having a Native American flute of your own, an extensive list of makers can be found at http://www.flutecircle.com/makers.htm. Many of these sites feature sound clips of the various styles and keys of flutes available.

Scott Loomis's Wind's Song Flutes site features articles about how to choose the right flute for you, as well as articles on breath and tonguing techniques. You'll find it at http://www.loomisflute.com

If you're searching for an instructor, check out the listings of instructors by state at the International Native American Flute Association page. Browse to http://worldflutes.org/instructors.html

After a lesson or two, you may be ready to tackle playing "Amazing Grace on your flute. You will find flute tablature and audio at the Stellar Flutes web site, http://www.stellarflutes.com/flutefingerchart.htm.

Finally, if you'd like to discuss and topics regarding the Native American flute, browse to http://groups.google.com and search for "Native American flute".

Read this article online with live links and visit the Cyberfolk archive at http://shark.dls.net/~chrismac/cyberfolk

If you have any favorite sites or topics you'd like to see mentioned in Cyberfolk, please let us know. Write to me care of Common Times, or email me at chris.mcintosh@usa.net. See you in Cyberspace!