Players/Teachers in Columbia Gorge, Oregon/Washington

Irish Flute
1

I’m really struggling on my flute, and feel that some hand holding would help, since I’m a rank beginner. Does anyone know of a flute teacher in the Columbia River Gorge (Oregon or Washington side)? I know there are some in Portland, but want to look closer to home before settling for a multi-hour ride for a one hour lesson. I know it’s a long shot but thought I’d try.

By the way Seattle has been suggested by some as a response to the “Portland teacher” question. I know we have members all over the world here who might lump those cities together in the same way I might lump together London and York. From a distance, they look close, right? Unfortunately, I’m an hour east of Portland, so driving for 8+ hours to go to and from a 1 hour lesson is impossible for me. Just thought I’d state that out of the gate.

Of course, this caveat limits the possible responses (which I’ve searched for and read, BTW, so I know of Jan in SW PDX). I was mainly hoping that someone in The Gorge was on the forum, which I realize is a long shot.

Thanks all.
-John

2

I’m in Spokane, not much help but if you come this way for some reason, send me a message and maybe we can meet up. Don

3

Here’s an older post by Lorenzo describing a Paddy O’Brien concert he attended in Hood River:

https://forums.chiffandfipple.com/t/now-look-what-ive-gotten-myself-into/21422/31

Since Lorenzo is a currently active member who plays pipes and whistle, you could try contacting him for leads.

4

Thought I’d post a resolution to this post on finding a flute teacher in The Columbia River Gorge. The short story is that I could’nt find one, so I ended up grudgingly deciding to drive to Portland to take lessons with Jan Deweese.

The long story is that I’m now incredibly happy that I made that decision. I go in every other week, and am treated to a lesson that it as much historical as it is technical.

I’m now on this amazing journey where I’m learning about the cultural and historical development of Celtic music even as I learn to play this instrument. The music seems to be unfolding along with my skill, and when I learn a new aspect of the music, my breathing and fingers seem more than ready to trying it out.

In the past 6 weeks or so, I’ve gone from getting frustrated after about 5-10 minutes of trying to make a sound, to actually playing well enough to improvise a bit- however poorly.

Thanks for the suggestions, both here and via email. I’m glad to be fortunate enough to study under Jan, so add me to the recommendation list for teachers in NW Oregon/SW Washington.

-John Metta

5

John-- This might be of interest to you:

Saturday, October 24, Trad Irish workshops in the Wee Céilí Room: 1pm, Leo Mac Namara (County Clare) Irish Flute, $35, 1 ½ hours, intermediate to advance: 3pm Aurora Burd, Irish Fiddle (just won 2nd place in the All-Irelands this summer!) $35, 1 ½ hours, reservations required by emailing me, www.SandAIrishEntertainment.com

****Saturday, October 24, straight up trad with Leo Mac Namara and Aurora Burd in the Wee Céilí Room with session to follow, $20, email me for reservations,www.SandAIrishEntertainment.com

Here’s Leo and Aurora’s bios: Leo Mac Namara Bio

Leo hails from Scariff, a town on the shores of Lough Derg in the eastern part of County Clare. It’s an area steeped in Irish traditional music and is considered by many as the heart and home of the music. The style Leo plays is rooted in East Clare but incorporates elements of the flute styles of Roscommon and Sligo, with a strong focus on the rhythm of the music. Leo started playing tin whistle when he was six years old, listened to the Bothy Band when he was eight, and moved on to the flute at age ten. He grew up knowing and playing with such great musicians as P.J. Hayes, Paddy Canny, Martin Woods, Martin Rochford, Peadar O’Loughlin, Christy Barry, and Martin Hayes.
In April 2009, Leo played with the All-Star Clare Ceili Band at the Comhaltas North American Convention in St. Louis. Leo plays regularly at Paddy Coyne’s Irish Pub in Seattle, Tacoma, & Bellevue and teaches flute & whistle in the Seattle area. He plays Copeland whistles and Peter Noy flutes in a range of different keys.

Leo Mac Namara Workshop Description

Build an understanding of the various styles found in this vast tradition, with discussion and examples of some techniques involved in playing these instruments. The instructor, a native of Scariff, County Clare, in Ireland, is an accomplished and experienced flute and whistle player with great insight into these lovely instruments and this style of music. The workshop will be taught by ear, but sheet music will be provided. All experience levels are encouraged to attend.

Cheers,

Tjones