The Native American flute is a self-expression that has captured hearts for thousands of years. The enchanting melodies and soothing vibrations make the flute an excellent tool for integral sound healing.
You may have seen our recent free online Sound Healing course The Native American style flute – an introduction which outlines the possibilities for integrating the flute into sound healing practice.
To learn more about this instrument, we talk to Cherokee flute maker Tony Francis, who provides insight into the significance of the Native American-style flute.
About Tony Franciscus
Tony has been making Native American flutes for about 35 years and has been using them for PTSD self-healing and stroke recovery ever since.
“I always wanted to play music,” says Tony, “and I couldn’t carry a tune in a bucket. One time I was in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and found a flute in a store, so I went in and picked it up. I put a scale on it and the lady in the store asked me, “Do you play the flute?” And I say, ‘Now I do it.’ I bought my first flute, and the rest is history.”
Tony began learning from Native American flute makers he met and discovered his unique instrument making style.
“I just had to learn how to make them and get in touch with something within yourself that makes you whole. We all have a song inside us, and I was always trying to get mine out. Once I found the flute, I was allowed to take it out and make it. Hopefully it will help others find their song and connect with their inner selves. They are the best instruments I have ever come across and easy to play!”
To learn more about Tony and his love for the Native American flute, watch our interview with him:
How was the Native American flute designed?
Flutes today look very different from older flutes. Traditionally, flutes were made based on the measurements of a maker’s hands, and each note was what the maker thought was the best sound.
This is known as ‘grandfather tuning’. In other words, flutes are designed to share the personal, inner song of each flute maker. Today, flutes are tuned in a minor pentatonic scale that can be played with other instruments. This means that you can play a flute in combination with a guitar, singing bowls, a piano and any other instrument you want to make songs with.
When you conduct a sound bath or lead a group healing session together, you and your musical partner can weave melodies together in harmony. The possibilities for collaboration and creation of Native American flute music are endless!
How to Choose Your Native American Flute
If you’re looking for a Native American flute, Tony says it’s important to let the flute “choose” you.
“All makers, the good makers, they will have a sound that they listen to when they make their flutes. And that sound may resonate with you, or it may not. So always, every time you see a flute, play it! See if you find one you like, and just keep playing it. They are great for calming you down and soothing your soul.
In addition to making flutes, Tony is committed to keeping Native American culture and tradition alive. He has donated flutes to indigenous youth and taught countless people how to start playing.
Several years ago, Tony and Gareth Laffely (the teacher of our free flute course) worked with Penobscot Elder James Neptune to reintroduce the Native American-style flute to the Penobscot people on their reservation in Old Town, Maine.
For the first time in 100 years, flutes were played and made again on the island reserve.
“It means the world to me,” says Tony, “and I’m just happy to be able to give something back.”
Final thoughts
The Native American flute is an incredible instrument and the perfect addition to any collection of sound healing instruments.
To learn to play the flute, check out our FREE online Sound Healing course at The Native American style flute – an introduction.
And in case you missed it, we have another great blog The Native American style flute and your sound healing practice which you can read for more information!
Stay informed about news and updates!
Join our mailing list and receive the latest news and updates from our team.
Don’t worry, your information will not be shared.
SPAM is a NO! We will never sell your information for any reason.