Song-Within
Interactive Workshop & Classes
Native Style Flute
Featuring High Spirits Flutes and Accessories
According to High Spirits Flutes maker Odell Borg: "A flute circle is a gathering of people who meet regularly to learn, play, share, or simply enjoy the music of the Native flute.
Flute circles welcome all levels of flute-playing skill: from beginner to experienced; it is a gathering for anyone interested in the Native flute. Most flute circles embrace a philosophy of improvisation and 'playing from the heart' so no musical experience is necessary.
Generally, flute circles will have a leader who helps to guide the group. Depending on the flute circle, sometimes the leader is available to assist beginners with the basic guidelines for creating melodies and playing duets.
Some flute circles may even include other instruments such as drums, etc. Joining a flute circle has social, creative, and health benefits and the Native flute is often used in therapeutic settings - but most of all, it's lots of fun to play!"
Flute Circles and Drum Circles ARE Different
A drum circle can be informal (spontaneous) or facilitated. The informal, community gathering is a free-form drumming session with the group engaged in a collective and improvised rhythm without the need for a conductor. People can come and go as they like. A facilitated gathering is a timed event focused on style and technique. A conductor, usually in the center of the circle of drummers, gives cues for starting and stopping, accenting, dynamics, and may point to various participants for soloing.
The native flute circle is an informal gathering focused on expanding the musical playing skills of participants, both individually and with others. Members practice playing with keyboard, guitar, percussion, and other flute players. An experienced player will encourage and assist in developing songs and improvisation techniques. The purpose is for group members to progress on their own flute journey.
“If the goal of flute players is to express themselves through a Native American-based musical means, it could be argued that they should be able to do that just as effectively through drumming or dancing. The answer may lie with the fact that, as a wind instrument, the flute uses not just the hands, but also the breath. Singing is the ultimate form of personal musical expression. The sound is formed from within the body and the words from within the mind. For people who feel that their voices are inadequate . . . The flute can give them a voice.”[1]:
1. Mary Jane Jones (August 2010). Revival and Community: The History and Practices of a Native American Flute Circle (M.A.). Kent State University, College of the Arts / School of Music. p.57
Open Mic Native Style Flute Circle:
3rd Saturday 9:00 am to 10:30 am
Veteran's Memorial Gazebo, NE Corner of Superstition Blvd and Idaho Rd.
Apache Junction
Here is some of the fun equipment we will be playing around with at the flute circle. Bring your flutes and come have some fun with us.