What Is a Native Style Flute?

I prefer to call my instruments North American wood flutes or Native style flutes—a more accurate reflection of the flutes being made today. Though inspired by traditional Native American designs, modern flutes differ in key ways.

The essential similarity is their structure: both the traditional and modern flutes feature two chambers—a slow air chamber and a resonant bore. This unique configuration sets them apart from every other flute in the world.

However, flutes made today are generally tuned to Western (European) musical standards, whereas traditional Native American flutes were tuned intuitively by the maker, guided by feeling rather than formal scales.

Why Play a Native Style Flute?

Playing the Native style flute is simple, rewarding, and healing. You don’t need formal musical training. If you're drawn to the sound of these flutes, consider it an invitation—you’re meant to play.

There are two primary paths in flute playing. I encourage you to explore both.

For Enjoyment and Expression

• Play along with backing tracks.

• Join flute circles.

• Improvise melodies solo.

• Connect with your body and breath.

Whatever brings you joy is the right way to play.

For Spiritual and Emotional Healing

Use your flute as a spiritual tool, like a phone line to the Spirit.

• Low notes: You speak your truth.

• High notes: Spirit responds.

Don’t overthink. Let the sound emerge on its own, and you may discover a deeper awareness within you.

The Mind Quieted by Sound

Listening to or playing these flutes has the ability to quiet the mind. The chatter slows. The part of the mind constantly seeking stimulation may step aside.

In that stillness, your true, ethereal identity has room to emerge.

If you're curious about the therapeutic and emotional value of the flute, I invite you to explore the section on Healing and the Native American Flute [insert link if needed].

What Makes a SevenWinds Flute Unique?

I make and play flutes because the process itself brings me peace, calms the squirrel cage in my head, and deepens my connection to Spirit. Sharing these instruments with others is my way of passing along that gift.

While I use power tools for precision and consistency, each flute is handcrafted with care and intention. My display often stands out at flute gatherings—featuring a diverse range of woods, colors, sizes, and designs.

I usually work in small batches of seven flutes, each group tuned to the same key but made from different woods. Every piece is truly one-of-a-kind.

Understanding “Concert Tuning”

The term concert tuning can be confusing. Ask ten flute players what it means, and you'll likely hear ten different answers.

For me, a well-tuned flute is one that can play a 14-note chromatic scale with reasonable accuracy. While a few notes upper register notes may not be perfectly precise, the overall tuning allows you to play alongside other instruments with confidence.