Native American Flute Lessons
According to a Northern Cherokee tale, a woodpecker appeared in a young brave's dream and led him through the forest to an old tree. There, on a dead branch, several baby woodpeckers were pecking holes. As the wind blew through the hollow wood, the baby woodpeckers would jump up and down, and a beautiful song would follow. The brave took the branch to his chief and blew through it, moving his fingers as he did so. The chief accepted the brave's new musical instrument, and the flute with its haunting sound was soon in much demand.
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Native American Teachers
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Perhaps the best way to learn to play the Native American flute would be to find a Native American flute maker or player. Just as in the procedure for learning to make the traditional flute, be prepared to learn many of the stories and customs of the tribe as well as the musical skills needed. This is all part of the learning process. Although it does not take an exceptionally long time to make or learn to play the flute, the Native American flutist may prolong the lessons to test your commitment.
Workshops and CDs
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If it is not possible to learn in the traditional way, there are several flute festivals and workshops where flute lessons are given. While many of these are taught by Native Americans, these lessons are taught in a group setting instead of individually. In some cases, if there is enough interest, workshops can be arranged anywhere in the country. There are also several CDs available to present a step-by-step guide of how to play. Some websites, such as the Grand Canyon Flutes website, also offer easy to follow directions as well as samples of proper techniques.
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