Why Play a Native American Style Flute? Is it Easy to Learn?
Many people ask, “Is the Native American style flute easy to learn?” or “Is this a good instrument for a beginner?”
There are several things about the Native American style flute that make it an ideal instrument for someone with limited or no musical experience.
Unlike conventional symphony or band instruments, the Native American style flute does not require difficult mouthing techniques, known as embouchure. You simply blow gently into the mouth hole. From the very beginning, a clear sound comes out of the flute.
The Native American style flute is tuned to a minor pentatonic scale. This means you have five notes in the scale instead of eight. With a pentatonic scale, all the notes and combinations of notes sound good together. You do not have to worry about hitting a sour note. From the moment you begin playing, you are making music. In this respect, the Native American style flute is even easier to play than a recorder. From the moment you begin, you are making music.
For someone looking for an easy instrument to start playing, this makes a big difference.
The tonal quality of the Native American style flute is soft and mellow. It is not loud like a trumpet or clarinet. For me, this meant I could play in my living room without worrying about disturbing others. The gentle tone helped me get past the fear of what someone else might think of my playing.
People who play the Native American style flute often gather in what are called flute circles. These circles are welcoming and supportive. If you choose, other players are usually happy to encourage you and share in your journey with your Love flute.
Because it is a simple and forgiving instrument, it does not take hours of daily practice to maintain your skills. You can pick it up, play for a few minutes, and set it down again without losing ground. This relaxed nature makes it one of the best instruments for beginners.
Even though it is easy to begin, the Native American style flute offers great room for artistic growth. Each of my flutes allows you to play two pentatonic scales, Mode One, also called Aeolian, and Mode Four, also called Dorian. As your experience grows, you can explore additional notes known as chromatic notes, expanding the creative range of your flute. With practice, it is even possible to play a full twelve note chromatic scale.
The Native American style flute may be called a simple or folk instrument, but it is far from limited. I have been playing for more than ten years and continue to discover new possibilities.
If you are wondering where to begin, you may find these pages helpful:
Your First Flute
How to Choose a Native American Style Flute
Native American Flute Tutorial Lesson 1
Native American Style Flute FAQ
These beginner pages will guide you step by step.
Is it Hard to Play the Native American Style Flute?
That depends on how you define hard.
It was not hard for me, and I started out as what I would call a musical zero. Of course, it takes some effort, like learning anything new. But when it comes to playing music, the Native American style flute is likely one of the easiest instruments there is, aside from tapping rhythm on a drum.
To make a clear sound and play simple runs up and down the scale can take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour. After that, something interesting happens. The flute begins to teach you. You experiment with covering and uncovering the holes, and music begins to emerge. It really is that simple.
For many beginners, this is what makes the instrument so satisfying.
A Note About the Term Native American Flute
The term Native American flute is legally reserved for flutes made by enrolled members of federally recognized tribes.
We are not Native American. Therefore, the instruments we make are called Native American style flutes.
We consider ourselves as contemporary flute makers rather than a traditional ones. We use modern fabrication techniques and tune our flutes to a modern pentatonic scale that aligns with instruments such as the piano.
Our intention is simple. We want the Native American style flute to be available to anyone who feels called to experience the satisfaction of making their own music.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Native American style flute good for beginners?
Yes. It is widely considered the easiest wind instruments to begin playing. The pentatonic scale helps ensure that the notes sound harmonious together.
How long does it take to learn to play?
People can produce a clear tone within minutes. Playing simple melodies can happen within the first day. Skill and expression develop naturally over time.
Do I need to read music?
No. Many players learn by ear. Simple fingering charts and tutorials make it easy to begin without reading traditional music.
What should I read next if I am just starting?
Visit Your First Flute and How to Choose a Native American Style Flute. You may also want to begin with Native American Flute Tutorial Lesson 1.