How to Make a Scale for Native American Flute

The Native American flute is an easy instrument to play. It is a fipple flute, meaning that is does not require a certain shape of the mouth to make music. One of the first things learned on a Native American flute is a scale. The basic scale on this flute is a pentatonic scale. One hole of the flute remains covered in the scale.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Begin with the lowest note. It is the lowest note the flute makes. It also determines the key of the instrument. If the lowest note is a G, then the flute is in G key. Cover all of the holes with fingertips to play the lowest note. The lowest note is often the trickiest to play.

2. Lift your finger from the bottom hole and blow. This is the next note in the scale.

3. Play the next note in the scale by uncovering the second hole from the bottom. Leave the bottom hole uncovered as well.

4. Uncover the third hole to play the next note in the scale. At this point, only the top three holes are covered.

5. Continue with the next note in the scale by uncovering the fifth hole from the bottom, also the second from the top. The fourth hole from the bottom stays covered. For this note, only the top and third from top holes are covered.

6. Finish the scale on the Native American flute by playing the last note. Uncover the top hole and blow. The fourth hole from the bottom remains covered.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't blow too hard on the flute. This can cause it to squeak.