Jeff Ball (flautist) facts for kids

Jeff Ball is a talented musician. He plays the Native American flute. He was born on August 6, 1966, in Bethesda, Maryland.

Discovering the Flute

Jeff found his passion for the flute in 1991. He was at a Powwow in Baltimore, Maryland. A Powwow is a special gathering. It celebrates Native American culture. A Choctaw man named Wintamer gave Jeff some basic lessons. But Jeff mostly taught himself how to play.

Early Inspirations

Jeff was inspired by other great flute players. These included R. Carlos Nakai and Douglas Spotted Eagle. Their music helped shape his own style.

Musical Journey and Success

In 1997, Jeff Ball signed with Red Feather Music. This record label is in Arvada, Colorado. Since then, his music has become very popular.

Awards and Recognition

Jeff's albums have received many honors. They have been nominated for the Native American Music Awards several times. In 2001, he won the Native Heart award. This was for his album Cedar Moon.

Collaborations with Other Musicians

Jeff Ball often records and performs with other artists. His brother, Randy Ball, plays the bass guitar. Ted Natale plays percussion, drum kit, and the Hang. John Natale, Barrie McLeod, Sennen Quigley, and Greg Dillon all play the guitar. Barrie and Sennen also play the piano.

Many guest artists have also appeared on his albums. These include Welela, Joseph Firecrow, Peter Phippen, Arvel Bird, Douglas Spotted Eagle, and Ron Kravitz.

Discography

Here are some of the albums Jeff Ball has released:

• Dancing with the Wind (This was an early demo cassette)
• Mixed-Blood
• Reverence
• Windtamer
• Cedar Moon (This album won the Native Heart award in 2001)
• Prairie Runner
• Songs of Winter
• Return to Balance
• The Shape of Light (This album won Best Flute Album in 2007 from ISMA)
• Ghost Town (Released on March 28, 2009)
• Secrets of a Crow
• Live