This issue: January 2008 (Issue 13)

The Native American flute in New Zealand


Leo Cappèl

Let’s give credit where credit is due: maybe European tools helped the builders of the Plains Indian flutes to perfect their instruments, just maybe. But some of the design features of those flutes are superior to the European design of recorders and flageolets. Subscribe to read the full article

American Indian Classical Music


Dr. David A. Yeagley, Comanche

I began my doctoral studies at the University of Arizona in 1992. At that time, I was unaware of any other American Indians in the field of classical music - performers or composers. In a few short years my awareness was radically altered. Subscribe to read the full article



R Carlos Nakai Interview


Mary O’Brien

Based in America, R. Carlos Nakai is one of the more charismatic performers with whom I have had the honour to speak. He injects a subtle humour into his speech and was never at a loss for insightful words and philosophy. Speaking at length about his upbringing, career and opportunities, it was my privilege to listen to a man who has given a great deal to the fluting world, and has no intention of stopping. Subscribe to read the full article


Gifted Students: a survival guide


Pandora Bryce, Ph.D

Yes, it’s a matter of survival. Truly exceptional students have characteristics and qualities which, if misunderstood, can make it impossible for the teacher–student relationship to survive. Sometime the very qualities that reveal themselves as a ‘gift’ can also show up as behaviours and attitudes that can be difficult to manage. What’s more, there’s a tendency to underestimate or even mock the problems of a highly talented person. Subscribe to read the full article

Find The Strength To Play – No Matter What!!!


Michelle Scullion

I have just been through one of the most difficult periods of my life, in that I have been ‘surrounded by death’ over the last three weeks. Firstly a good friend of mine lost his battle with cancer; then my Aunt died a week later; and last week my Father also left us from this Earth. It has been a very difficult time but I made the decision that, no matter what, I would find the strength to play in honour of him at his funeral. Subscribe to read the full article


Teaching Notes: Taking A Broader View of the Music


Helen M Colthart

Music Education in the 21st century is complex and teachers are faced with many choices in the material to be used and options to select and incorporate into their teaching. To include these diverse options we need good planning, but also careful selection of topics to suit the needs, interests, learning style and ability of each student. Teachers often feel overwhelmed by the demands placed on their time with students, and may even feel inadequate and confused. To avoid feeling bombarded by new ideas, and to hold true to ideas that have stood the test of time, there is one essential element that we must never lose sight of, and that is the music itself. The ultimate aim of our teaching is the performance of music. Subscribe to read the full article


Other features & columns


Old Flutes Speak, Part 2 – Michael Graham Allen
Heavenly Flute Players No. 5 - Trevor Wye 

How to make a River Cane Flute – R Carlos Nakai
ABRSM Competition, Sydney Flute Festival 2007 Review – Antares Boyle
How to Play… Lament by Paul Boot - Alexa Still
Jim on Jazz: The AB Real Book - Jim Langabeer
Dear Ingrid… - Ingrid Culliford
Piccolo notes: Part 3, the final installment continues - Rosamund Plummer
Powerhouse Museum Flute Collection: The Neville Amadilo Flutes – Danielle Eden, Michael Lea
FFF Fluzzle – David Smith
Scherzo: A Musical Menu - Alisa Willis
Puzzle Page – Owen Auger
Happenings in … USA, Australia, NZ, Europe
New Releases

And more…

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Flute Focus Ltd, 112 Postman Rd, RD 4, Albany 0794, New Zealand
email: mary.obrien@xtra.co.nz