First Native American Flute - Part I…
So, you’ve heard the soothing, relaxing sound of the Native American Flute and you think you might want to get one. What to do, what to do? What are some good makers? What are good qualities to look for? What will it cost? And, a host of other questions I’m sure.
If you’re able to play a flute before buying, by all means, do it. That’s the best way to know if you like a flute. However, most of us don’t have that option, and are relegated to shopping and buying online. Like most musical instruments, the NAF is available in three basic categories: cheap junk, good inexpensive instruments, and high-end. Like most things, you get what you pay for, but there is also the law of diminishing returns. There comes a point where the additional cost of the instrument adds no additional quality of tone or playability, but in fluff and dare I say, “bling”.
There are several makers you’ll find online, many of which have very good reputations. There are also many, many makers who don’t have websites, and you’ll only hear about them from other players. If you’re buying your first flute online, sight-unseen, I recommend buying from an easily found reputable maker. Two easy-to-find, reputable makers who offer affordable starter flutes are High Spirits (by Odell Borg) and Butch Hall. Another option is Stellar Flutes by Tom Stuart and family. I’ve never played a Stellar, but I know they have a good reputation. I can say from experience though, that you’ll do well with a flute from High Spirits or Butch Hall.
Be prepared to spend $100 - $150 for a decent beginner flute. Anything much less than this is fairly likely to get you a flute with problems, possibly poor tone, poor construction, or being out of tune. Obviously you want your first experience with the flute to be positive and encouraging. Anything much more than this could have you paying for goodies like leather or bead work, woodburning designs, or other “for looks” features. Don’t get me wrong, there are more expensive flutes out there that are higher quality and are really worth the additional cost, but for a first flute you’ll do fine in the $100 - $150 range.
Another option if you’re on a budget is the Amon Olorin PF, which is made from ABS plastic. Obviously it doesn’t have the warmth of tone of a wooden flute, but it does sound surprisingly good. In addition, it comes with two bodies, so you can play in both G and F#. I do actually have one of these and I like it. On the positive side, the tone is very good. It is also durable and portable, and of course it comes with two keys. On the negative side, it’s not quite as nice-sounding as wood (has a bit of that “plastic ring” in the tone). The holes are a little far apart on the F# body, and a bit of cross-fingering is necessary for a note or two to be in tune.
The NAF is a very simple instrument, and is very easy to play. But, just like anything else you’re best off to get yourself informed before making a purchase. Next post we’ll talk about some other details to look for, including playing considerations, keys, woods, and more.