Native American Flute: where to start?

[dspmusik]

Hi guys,
Long time whistle player (low D is my primary) and I'm looking to pick up a NAF.
I'm comfortable with pipers grip so a lower key is preferred. I was thinking low E or D.
What are some reputable makers to look for, and price ranges?
(I've checked YouTube reviews and eBay, but wanted some insider info)

[Feadoggie]

I am not anything close to expert on these flutes. I've dabbled with them at times though. I know enough to be dangerous and probably misguided. But... some thoughts.

You might want to talk to a couple of makers. Since you are a low whistle player you might start with a couple of NAF makers that also make low whistles. They'll have the background to help you with comparisons I would think. Does that make any sense?

Geoffrey Ellis is the first one I would look to. His flutes and whistles are very well done. He's been making Native style flutes longer than he has Irish flutes and whistles. You can get his contact info from his website. http://www.ellisflutes.com/

Another whistle maker that I believe makes NAF is Ronaldo Reyburn. I think he recently offered a couple of flutes on the World/Folk Winds forum. His website is here. http://reyburnwhistles.com/

A number of members on this forum and on the Flute forum have mentioned playing NAF in the past. Maybe they will stop by with their suggestions too.

Hope that helps.

Feadoggie

[dspmusik]

Thx! I'll check those out.

[jim stone]

Another option (possibly) is to visit New Mexico and go to Santa Fe. There are shops near the Plaza that sell good
NAFs in different keys. Or search on native flutes Santa Fe, cause they are there. I asked one of these people once how to play the NAF. He said: 'Play from your heart.'

[squirrel]

As Feadoggie told, Geoffrey Ellis is a very reputable maker. I own a low D made by him and it doesn't need pipers grip (as most of low NAFs), very haunting sound.

Other very good makers are:

- Ed Hrebec http://www.spiritofthewoodsflutes.com/default.htm

- Colyn Petersen http://www.woodlandvoices.com

- Ed Dougherty https://www.etsy.com/shop/TreeOfLifeFlutes

- John Stillwell http://www.atflutes.com/
I own a couple of his collectors flutes and they are authentic works of art

- Pat Haran http://www.patharanflutes.com

- Kuzin Bruce http://kuzinbruceflutes.tripod.com/id2.html
He makes very good flutes at very good prices!

Hope this helps.

[fotosled]

I'm playing NAF for many years.... Agree with SQUIRREL... from my personal experience Ed Dougherty or Bruce Kuzin would be a great way to start especially if money is a question. Both of them are very nice people too!

F# probably would be a very good and common key to get a first NAF... It's somewhere in the middle between high and low flutes... and has a nice balance to it.

[dspmusik]

I appreciate the input and links guys. Thanks!