Charles Littleleaf facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Charles Littleleaf
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Charles Littleleaf at Smith Rock State Park, Oregon
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| Background information | |
| Born | Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, Oregon, United States |
| Genres | Native American |
| Occupation(s) | Musician, flute maker |
| Instruments | Native American flute |
| Years active | 1995–present |
| Labels | Littleleaf Music |
Charles Littleleaf is a talented musician. He plays and makes Native American flutes. He is a member of the Warm Springs Indian Reservation in Oregon. Charles is also an honorary member of the Piikani Nation in Alberta, Canada. His father was Chief Jack Littleleaf.
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Becoming a Flute Player
In 1992, Charles Littleleaf received a special gift. It was a flute from the famous Native American flutist, R. Carlos Nakai. This gift encouraged Charles to learn how to play.
The next year, R. Carlos Nakai invited Charles to a flute workshop. It was held at the Feathered Pipe Ranch in Montana. This was one of the first workshops of its kind.
Playing from the Heart
The workshop lasted two weeks. Charles was surrounded by many skilled musicians. But he learned a very important lesson there. He discovered that the most beautiful Native American flute music comes from the heart and spirit.
Charles continued to play the flute on his own. He found that playing helped him express his feelings. It also brought a sense of healing to himself and others. At first, Charles played for his family and friends. This is how his unique musical style began to grow.
Today, Charles still loves playing the native flute. His music is deeply connected to Mother Earth. He shares memories of growing up on his reservation with audiences around the world.
Making Native American Flutes
Charles Littleleaf has been making high-quality Native American flutes for over 20 years. He creates flutes for both professional musicians and people who are just starting to learn.
Music Albums
Charles Littleleaf has released several albums:
- Whispers of Earth Medicine (1997)
- Ancient Reflections (2002)
- Essence of Life (2019)
- Ancient Reflections II (2024)
Collaborations
- Heart of the Wolf (2001) – This album features Charles playing flute with vocals by Karen Therese.
Awards and Features
Charles Littleleaf has received recognition for his music and work:
- 2008: Won a Just Plain Folks Award for 'Song of the Year'. This was for his song Eagle Spirit from his Ancient Reflections album.
- 2007: Was featured in an article in Celebrity Magazine, Cowboys and Indians.
- 2004: A documentary about his flute making and life was shown on Oregon Art Beat by Oregon Public Broadcasting.
- 2001: His music was used as the soundtrack for a documentary called The Oregon Story, Tribal Economies by Oregon Public Broadcasting.
- 2001: Was nominated for a Native American Music Award (NAMA).
