Native American Flute
The Native American Flute has been popular for centuries. It is well-known in today's musical world, as it is included in many New Age musical pieces, along with its place in Native American music. The two types of Native American flutes are known as the plains and the woodlands. The Native American flute is one of the most important instruments of the culture, only coming in second-best to the drum.
History and Origination of the Flute
The Native American flute is one of the oldest musical instruments known to man. Bone flutes have been found to be as old as 60,000 years. As time went on, additional holes were added to the flute, as well as different ways to make it. There is also an ancient legend involving a young boy and girl and the origin of the flute.
- Cedar Mesa Pictures, information and samples of sound
- World Flutes Information on flutes
How is the Flute Made, and From What?
The first Native American flutes were constructed using bones and wood. Some were constructed from sturdy cane and giant grasses. The flutes were typically hollowed out, and a certain number of holes were added to them. The Southwest tribes often made their flutes from clay, and allowed them to harden. Still other flutes were shaped into figures, such as birds or animals.
- Zadjik Construction of the first flutes
- Absolute Astronomy What flutes are made of
Why is it Different?
The Native American flute is unique because this flute has two air chambers, making it different than others. Additionally, the Native American flute is easy to use. You do not need to know hard mouthing techniques to start playing these flutes. Most people play the Native American flute because it is soft, mellow and relaxing, and does not require hours of practice. Anyone can play a tune that sounds good on a Native American flute.
- At Flutes Why play a Native American flute
- Native-American Flutes How to play the flute
What Ceremonies Used it and Why?
Native American flutes were often used for personal agendas, such as wooing a woman, healing the sick, mediating and other spiritual rituals. The NW Coastal tribes were known to use both cedar and bone whistles for dances and invoking the spirits. The flute was also used for prayer and entertainment. Flutekey is dedicated to the preservation of the Native American flute.
