Flute circle facts for kids

People playing Native American flutes at a flute circle meeting.

A flute circle is a group of people who get together to play and learn about the Native American flute. Think of it like a club for flute players!

These groups meet regularly for fun and learning. They are a great place for new players to get lessons and tips. Many flute circles have a leader who is good at teaching music to groups. This leader helps organize the activities and makes sure everyone has a good time making music together.

The way flute circles use the Native American flute is different from its traditional uses. In the past, the flute was used for special reasons, like courtship, hunting, or ceremonies. Because the flute is an important part of Native American culture, flute circles are encouraged to use the instrument with respect.

People in a flute circle can have all different levels of skill. Some might be professional musicians, while others might be just starting out. The main goal is to help everyone become a better musician. They learn simple song structures and how to make up music on the spot, which is called improvisation.

To make music together, they use fun techniques like:

• Duets and Ensembles: Playing with one or more other people.
• Drones: One person plays a long, steady note while another plays a melody on top.
• Call and Response: One person plays a short musical phrase, and another person or the group plays one back.

While some flute circles learn about Native American cultures, they usually don't focus on just one specific tribe.

Flute circles also give their members a chance to perform. They might play at festivals, in schools, or at senior centers. Some groups have even held their own concerts and made music albums.

A Special Kind of Music Group

Flute circles are a type of community music group, just like drum circles or community choirs. However, some people believe flute circles are unique.

Playing a wind instrument like a flute uses your breath, which is very personal, much like singing. For people who may not feel confident about their singing voice, playing the flute can be a powerful way to express themselves. The flute can give them a voice.

Organizations that Help Flute Circles

There are several large organizations that support local flute circles around the world.

• WFS — World Flute Society (U.S.A.)
• FTF — FluteTree Foundation (U.S.A.)
• JIFCA — Japan Indian Flute Circle Association (Japan)

These groups keep lists of registered flute circles, helping people find a group near them.

How Many Flute Circles Are There?

The number of flute circles has grown over the years. The chart below shows the number of groups that were registered with major flute organizations from 1999 to 2017. As you can see, they became much more popular over time.

This chart only shows the groups that officially registered. No one knows for sure how many flute circles actually exist around the world.

Two modern Native American flutes.

Where Can You Find Flute Circles?

Flute circles can be found all over the world. Here is a small sample of groups from different countries. Many more exist, and you can often find them by searching online or checking the websites of the major flute organizations.

Australia

• Earthsong Flute Circle (Kambah)

Canada

• Northern Alberta Native American Flute Circle (Grande Prairie)
• Vancouver Island Flute Circle (Vancouver)

Japan

• Tokyo Flute Circle

United Kingdom

• North Kent Native American Flute Circle (Welling)

United States

• Arizona: Tucson Flute Circle (Tucson)
• California: Los Angeles World Flute Circle (Los Angeles)
• Colorado: Mile High Flute Circle (Denver)
• Florida: Riverwind Flute Circle (Leesburg)
• Illinois: Healing Winds Flute Circle (Hinsdale)
• New York: Great Spirit Native American Flute Circle (New York City)
• Texas: Spring Cypress Native American Flute Circle (Spring)
• Washington: Good Medicine Flute Circle (Everett)