Description
Craft a Flute. Discover a Tradition. Create Your Own Voice.
Experience the rewarding process of transforming wood into music in this immersive, hands-on workshop. Guided by over three decades of instrument-making experience, you’ll build your own handcrafted Native American-style flute while exploring the history, craftsmanship, and cultural traditions that have inspired these remarkable instruments.
Throughout the day, you’ll learn how a simple piece of wood becomes a beautifully tuned flute using traditional hand tools and time-honored techniques. As you work, we’ll discuss the evolution of the Native American-style flute, its place in Indigenous cultures, the principles of flute acoustics, and practical playing techniques that will help you begin making music before you leave.
Rather than assembling a kit, you’ll participate in nearly every stage of the flute-making process. Beginning with a carefully prepared flute blank, you’ll shape, tune, and personalize your instrument while gaining a deeper understanding of both the craft and the science behind its voice.
What You’ll Learn
Throughout the workshop you’ll experience each step of the flute-making process, including:
- Shaping and rounding the flute body using traditional hand tools
- Creating the sound chamber, splitting edge, and air channel
- Drilling and tuning the finger holes
- Adjusting the flute’s key and overall voice
- Carving or shaping a decorative flute totem
- Sanding and finishing your instrument
- Decorating and personalizing your flute
- Basic playing techniques and maintenance
Along the way we’ll explore the history, cultural significance, and craftsmanship of Native American-style flutes, giving you a deeper appreciation for both the instrument and the traditions that inspired it.
A Traditional Hands-On Experience
One of the unique aspects of this workshop is our commitment to traditional craftsmanship. We intentionally minimize the use of power tools, allowing participants to experience the satisfaction of shaping their instruments with hand files, rasps, hand drills, sandpaper, and simple woodworking techniques.
The process requires patience, attention to detail, and creativity, making the finished flute even more meaningful because every curve, carving, and note has been created by your own hands.
No previous woodworking or musical experience is required.
What’s Included
- A full-day Native American-style flute building workshop
- All materials needed to create your own flute (approximately 18 inches or smaller)
- Instruction in traditional hand-building techniques
- Discussions on history, culture, flute acoustics, and craftsmanship
- Basic playing instruction before you leave
- Coffee, tea, and water throughout the day
Workshop Details
Date: October 17, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
A one-hour lunch break is included. You’re welcome to bring your own lunch or enjoy one of the local restaurants in Lakemont.
You’ll Leave With
- Your own handcrafted Native American-style flute
- An understanding of traditional flute-building techniques
- Knowledge of the instrument’s history, cultural significance, and acoustics
- The confidence to play your new flute and continue your musical journey
- A one-of-a-kind instrument that reflects your creativity and craftsmanship
- An unforgettable experience creating music with something you built yourself
Whether you’re drawn by music, woodworking, history, or simply the joy of creating with your hands, this workshop offers a rare opportunity to connect with a centuries-old tradition while crafting an instrument you’ll treasure for years to come.
Interested in a more personalized learning experience?
Private one-on-one instruction and custom instrument-building immersions are also available for individuals seeking an in-depth, customized workshop experience. Contact us to learn more about private classes and multi-day immersion
