Meditation sheet music

[ThorntonRose]

Lately I have wanted to play meditative type music on my low D. So, I looked for Native American and Indian raga sheet music, but I can't find any for free. Does anyone have any suggestions for meditation music?

[mutepointe]

Make up your own tunes.

Other people will have internet links for you.

[walrii]

"Play the shape of a cloud, Grasshopper."

[Denny]

[Carey]

This from a shakuhachi playing friend:

"I tried to post on that, but you have to be a member. If you are so inclined, you could tell the fellow to google shakuhachi and honkyoku. Some folks may have the pieces in Japanese and western notation simultaneously. Of course, there is always the option of just sitting down and blowing long notes one at a time. Meditation can be pretty boring stuff for many.

I did like the grasshopper comment, though.

Jeff "

[Dameon]

You have to keep in mind that Native American music is (I believe) essentially improvised, and played along scales that, traditionally, are unique to the flute they're played on. You're not going to find genuine sheet music for it. If you want to play meditative stuff, your best bet is just to sit and improvise, something that's pretty easy on the whistle.

[Denny]

but what happens if you get lost?

[Lyn D]

ThorntonRose,

Here is a web site with over 100 songs on the Native American flute:

http://www.flutetree.com/songbook/conte ... index.html

[BigLeaf]

Do the Low Ds require too much air to be meditative? I just ordered my first low D to play tunes and for meditation. I have a Casey Burns folk flute, but I don't relax when playing it because of how the flute is held.

[markbell]

Do the Low Ds require too much air to be meditative? I just ordered my first low D to play tunes and for meditation. I have a Casey Burns folk flute, but I don't relax when playing it because of how the flute is held.

That's gonna be a very individual thing. Yes, low D's often require a lot of air and focus. Some forms of meditation center around awareness of breathing and deep, controlled breaths. Could be a great mix. For me, the hard part was letting go of the worry about how I "sounded," and allowing the music to go where it will.

I have found both low D whistle and NAF to be powerful for meditation and/or prayer. Sometimes, it's the only thing that seems to help me center (especially when I'm feeling overwhelmed). Sometimes, I can't get past listening to myself, and just put the durned thing down.

Mark

[talasiga]

Why not get a book or two of Irish and Scottish Slow Airs?
These are some of the finest examples of meditative pathos
in any music tradition, IMO.

A slow air is an inspiring ground for various raag-ic improvisation if you are so inclined.

Good Luck!

[Rhadge]

Airs are too good I think. You lose concentration of the meditation and can only focus on the music.