Native American-Style Flute Workshop

2 day workshop, Friday Nov. 15 & Saturday Nov. 16     9 am – 3 pm

Participants will construct their flute from a piece of cedar. Each crafter will determine the fundamental note and bring life into the flute. The crafter will determine finger hole placements and make the flute “talk”. Most materials are furnished but you will need to bring an x-acto knife and two blades, numbers 11 and 17. Most variety packs include these two blades. A small plane and sharp pocket knife are also recommended. No musical experience is required. All you need is the willingness to work with your hands, exercise your fingers and experience a form of cultural art indigenous to the North American continent.

This is a 2-day workshop. Attendance to both sessions is mandatory, and may not take up the entire time allotted. Participants must be 18+ due to the use of blades and other tools. Waivers must be signed before the start of the workshop.

Artist Bio

Tom Gustin has been crafting a style of Native American flute for almost 40 years, and teaching others how to create their very own flutes for over 20. After graduating from UW Steven’s Point with a Master’s Degree in Forestry, Tom began using his free time to teach others about his passion. Tom has crafted over 600 flutes, including multiple flutes for Grammy-Nominated recording artist Peter Phippen.