How to Test a Native American Flute

Native American flutes, especially those of the Great Plains tribes, are making a comeback among both Native American and nonnative musicians. Traditionally, Native American flutes were played by men. Their original purpose is uncertain, but from some time before contact with Europeans, flutes were played as part of a courtship ritual. In modern times there are increasing numbers of women playing Native American flutes. Although many Native American flute players make their own flutes, there are also several flute-makers who sell their flutes online and in stores. If you decide to buy a flute, you should try playing several different flutes to find the one that's right for you.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Check the length of the flutes at which you look. The right flute for you is traditionally the length from your armpit to your wrist, but you may choose instead to buy a shorter one.

2. Examine flutes made from several different woods. Flutes made from soft woods, such as red cedar and fir, have a different timbre than those made from hard woods, such as oak or cherry wood. Play them to see which tone you like.

3. Look at the block atop the windway of the flutes you're checking. Some flute-makers carve a simple block shape, while others make a signature animal shape, such as a bear or a loon. Still other flute-makers are willing to make the block in a shape you want. Choose a block that means something to you.

4. See if the flutes have a seam along the length of the flute. Some flutes are made in two pieces then glued together. If you choose one of these, make sure that the two parts have been glued carefully with no air leaks that can affect the tone of the flute.

5. Search for an indication of the flute-maker if you're looking at Native American flutes in a music store. Many Native American-style flutes are made in factories in China or other countries. While these may be cheaper, they generally lack the quality and spirituality of flutes made by Native Americans or by flute-makers taught by Native Americans.

6. Play several flutes to find the one with the pitch and tone quality that most appeals to you. Some flutes are tuned to a particular scale, but many made by Native Americans don't match western scales precisely, and are meant to be played as solo instruments. Decide if you want to play alone, or with other musicians using instruments besides drums.

7. Test flutes until you find the one that feels right to you. For Native American flute-makers, there is no single right flute. A flute should belong to the person who loves it and who feels as if the flute was made for him.

Tips & Warnings

• When you choose a flute, you should also choose a case for it. The case will protect it from water, which could damage the flute, and also protect the block.