Hands of the Music Maker is a painting by John Guthrie which was uploaded on February 2nd, 2022.
Hands of the Music Maker
Hands of a Cherokee Flute artist over the sheet music Amazing Grace in the Cherokee Syllabary. The Native American flute is a captivating instrument... more
by John Guthrie
Original - Sold
Price
$3,000
Dimensions
20.500 x 27.500 x 0.050 inches
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Title
Hands of the Music Maker
Artist
John Guthrie
Medium
Painting - Watercolor
Description
Hands of a Cherokee Flute artist over the sheet music Amazing Grace in the Cherokee Syllabary. The Native American flute is a captivating instrument with a rich history deeply entwined with the cultural tapestry of Indigenous peoples across North America. Intricately handcrafted, often from softwoods such as cedar, these flutes hold an integral place in Native American cultures, acting as conduits for storytelling, spiritual expression, and healing practices.
Historically, these flutes were central to tribal ceremonies and rituals, such as rites of passage and healing ceremonies. They were also used in courtship rituals, with heartfelt melodies echoing through the air as expressions of affection. Each flute has a unique voice, carrying a distinct, soothing timbre that reflects the soul of its maker and the natural elements from which it was born.
Traditional Native American flutes are typically made in the style of "end-blown" flutes, characterized by a block and nest on the top which directs the air flow and helps to create the flute's distinctive sound. This type of flute, known as a block flute or duct flute, is designed to create a warm, mellow sound, conducive to the evocative and emotive melodies often played on these instruments.
In terms of structure, these flutes are most often built with a pentatonic minor scale, although different tribes and regions have their own unique styles and tunings. The flute typically has six holes, but a notable variant, the Anasazi-style flute, features a seven-hole design. Each flute's size and shape can affect the sound it produces, further adding to the instrument's rich diversity.
One iconic aspect of the Native American flute is the beautiful artwork often adorning the instrument. This can range from simple carvings to ornate designs, often depicting animals, natural phenomena, and other elements significant to the culture of the creator. These designs are not just decorative, but also hold deep symbolic and spiritual significance.
The resurgence of interest in the Native American flute during the latter part of the 20th century, often attributed to key figures like R. Carlos Nakai, has seen this historic instrument make its way into the broader musical world. Today, it is not uncommon to hear its haunting melodies in film soundtracks, New Age music, and fusion genres, taking its place alongside modern instruments in a multitude of settings.
However, the Native American flute is not merely an instrument; it is a cultural treasure, a bridge to the past, and a living expression of Indigenous culture. The art of flute-making, playing techniques, and associated rituals are being continually passed down through generations, maintaining a living link with the ancestors. The Native American flute is an instrument imbued with history and spirituality, its music a poignant reminder of the profound bond between humans and the natural world, expressed through the universal language of sound.
Uploaded
February 2nd, 2022