Description
Shape Earth into Music
Discover the remarkable art of ceramic instrument making in this immersive, hands-on workshop where history, craftsmanship, and music come together. Using the timeless elements of earth, water, air, and fire, you’ll transform raw clay into beautiful, functional musical instruments while exploring a tradition that spans thousands of years.
The day begins with an engaging presentation on the history and evolution of ceramic aerophones, including ocarinas, whistles, flutes, and rattles from the Americas and beyond. Through authentic reproductions and rare examples inspired by instruments dating back more than 2,000 years, you’ll discover how these remarkable instruments were used for music, ceremony, storytelling, and daily life. Throughout the presentation, you’ll hear many of these instruments played, bringing ancient traditions to life through sound.
With a deeper understanding of their history and construction, you’ll begin creating your own ceramic instruments using traditional hand-building techniques. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced artist, you’ll receive personalized guidance throughout the process as you shape, tune, decorate, and refine your creations.
Choose from a variety of projects, including:
- Ocarinas
- End-blown flutes
- Quenas
- Whistles
- Rattles
- Or create a combination of several instrument styles
Most participants complete two or more instruments, while many are able to create three or four during the workshop, depending on the complexity of their designs.
What’s Included
- A full-day, hands-on ceramic instrument workshop
- Educational presentation exploring the history, archaeology, and cultural significance of ceramic instruments
- Step-by-step instruction in traditional clay instrument construction
- Guidance on shaping, tuning, and decorating your instruments
- Kiln firing after the workshop
- Careful packaging of your finished instruments for pickup or shipping (shipping costs not included)
Workshop Details
Date: September 19, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
A one-hour lunch break is included. Feel free to bring your own lunch or enjoy a meal at the nearby Open Door at Alley’s.
Recommended Age: 16 and older
No previous experience with ceramics or music is required. This workshop is designed for curious beginners, artists, educators, musicians, families, and anyone interested in exploring ancient technologies through hands-on learning.
You’ll Leave With
- Two or more handcrafted ceramic instruments made by you
- An understanding of traditional ceramic instrument-making techniques
- Knowledge of the history and cultural significance of ceramic aerophones
- Practical skills you can continue exploring at home
- Functional works of art that can be played and enjoyed for years to come
- A memorable experience connecting creativity, history, and music in a truly unique way
Join us for a day of discovery as you transform simple clay into instruments that echo traditions carried across thousands of years. Create, learn, and take home music shaped by your own hands.
