The collection of Native American flutes (crafted by Matt Shooting Star from Spirit Song Flutes) includes two drone flutes (F# and D). These are the two widest flutes. The drone flutes have in their mouthpiece two holes which can be played singularly or together. When played together the drone side of the instrument provides a constant base tone accompanying the melodies played on the opposite side. The other flutes are singles in the keys C, G and F. I appreciate developing the extra lung capacity from what is essentially yogic breathing (the drone flutes require large volumes of air).

The haunting sounds of the Native American Indian flutes return the listener to the tranquility of their inner Self.

Encapsulating the oneness Native American Indians have with Spirit and Mother Earth, their undulating tones linger and resonate within the aspiring heart, stilling the mind. Their haunting, captivating sounds rise from her depths to touch the soul deeply...

The flute maker's love for Native American peoples, their culture and music and his many visits to their homelands brings to each instrument an intimate connection to Spirit.

In the words of the flutes' maker, Matt Shooting Star...

"From my first experience with Native American style flutes I was awestruck by the captivating and moving power of the music they create. I have devoted my life to this instrument after experiencing the profound healings it has brought me. I craft flutes to bring this joy and healing into other people's lives."

Native American Indian flutes

flutes

While the Native American Indian flutes have been the main flutes I have played, increasingly I have also been drawn to playing other flutes - including the Bansuri flute. The Bansuri is a bamboo flute that has a very long and significant history in Indian music.

Through synchronicity I acquired one in the key of F (from Arjuna at Bansuri Australia). This was the first transverse flute I have played. I have since purchased two more (E and C). I have found it to be an extraordinarily challenging flute to play - no doubt many, many years of learning is required to get the correct embouchure and fingering. I am thoroughly enjoying their beautiful voices and look forward to them revealing more of their warm and haunting tones. 

Bansuri flutes

Shakuhachi flutes

The Japanese Shakuhachi Zen flute (traditionally made from a specific type of bamboo) has long been an instrument of great appeal for me. I am drawn by its haunting and evocative windy voice. Powerful, subtle, dramatic yet soft and sweet, the Shauhachi for me represents all of the aspects of nature's rawness and beauty. It is a very challenging flute to play - its three octaves require mastery of the embouchure and fingering, with great breath control and composure.

Due to the expense of these most beautiful instruments and the tendency of traditional Japanese bamboo Shakuhachis to crack when imported into Australia (due to the different climate), I sought out flutes made here in Australia - fortunately accessibly priced and of the highest quality and beauty. I chose a Shakuhachi made by David Brown (Victoria) as his flutes were highly recommended. My flute is made from River Red Gum (a beautiful hardwood eucalypt with a vibrant red colour).

To fully express the Shakuhachi's many moods I am blessed to have the guidance of Shigeru Yomei Nakajima, a Master Kinkoryu Shakuhachi Chikumeisha teacher and player from Japan. I so look forward to our times together :)

Pratika-Sahayak shares a story about his flute journey...

"The music that touches the
 very depth of our heart can elevate our consciousness."

Sri Chinmoy