This flute, like the last two, is also made of cedar.
The block, the classic Little John design, is also made of cedar as are the tips.
This is an extremely expressive flute, having a haunting sound that begs to be played solo. It has a classic Little John tone, dark, resonant, and full. This particular flute is also a little temperamental and can squeak if you're not careful. My other Woodsong flutes do not do this. This squeak is not always bad. I like to use it during the ends of notes to add expression from time to time. Most "Woodland" style flutes are not built for fast fingering and tonguing. Not that they can't be played that way, it just seems most of the time to work against their lovely, warm sound. Here is an audio sample of this flute from my second CD, Sacred Dreams.
LISTEN TO THIS FLUTE.
If you compare the audio sample of this flute with the flutes from Part 1 you might be able to hear the difference in tones.
The flute is 23-1/2" long and has a 1-1/4" bore. Hawk and Geri made it for me in 1999 and it is #63 of 250 flutes they made that year. Little John flutes are beautifully made, with simple clean lines. Unfortunately Hawk passed away a few years ago. A major loss to fans of the Native American flute. Geri is rumored to be making flutes again under the name Red Moon Flutes, but I have not spoken to her in a long time and do not have any information where to get them.
We'll talk about Little John "Woodland" style flutes in future postings, including looking at one of their Bass flutes.
To find out more information about these makers, check out the Native American flute makers page on my web site. LINK
There is no link for Woodsong flutes, however Geri LittleJohn is making flutes again under the name Green Grass flutes
Be sure to check out the photos of my flute collection on my web site. LINK.
Here is a page where you can also learn more about the history and construction too. LINK
If you have any questions, send it to me using the link below.
I live in Myrtle Beach and last Spring Break a dude left a wooden flute in a house - looks like osuth american, hand carved. i just bleached it and it plays real well.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful! I love the pics but especially the music.
ReplyDeleteI have been thinking about learning to play, I do have some basic musical ability (I play guitar). But I have been hesitant because I know that men are usually the fluteplayers in tribes. Being of Cherokee heritage, I considered asking the elders when I go to Cherokee in May if it is acceptable. Do you have any input?
I love the mellow sound of the woodland flute.
Lisa
When are you coming to Israel?
ReplyDeleteFamily tradition holds that I am part Cherokee on my dad’s side. I do not have tribal affiliation and have not looked into it. My Native American Music Award was in the non-native category, which they have for artists that they feel are honoring the cultures of the North American Natives. For me the music is the important part and I am inspired by many cultures around the world. My music features African, South American, Asian and Indonesian instruments and influences. My love of the American Southwest and it’s cultures however, plays the biggest role.
ReplyDeleteScott
Great! like the pictures! :D
ReplyDeleteGeri Littljohn has a websight page www.greengrassflutes.com
ReplyDeletewado
Andrew
Did a search on Hawk Little John and found this web-site. Very nice. I have a flute made my Hawk Little John ( if this is the same person). Love it very much just wish I could play well. Have Cherokee in my blood from my fathers side. My great-grandmother was half, her father was Chief. Scott, where was the Hawk Little John you speak of from.
ReplyDelete