Tips for Playing Bass Native American Flutes

Playing Bass Native American flutes is very rewarding, but come with some challenges. Let's look at creative ways to make it easier for you to play the music in your heart!
Breath Control at 1:20
Tonguing at 3:23
Hand & Wrist Placement at 5:53
Posture at 9:10
Construction at 10:25
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Filmed by Maria Lipford
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[@Starseediam]

Ho Ka Brother! This is Standswithbear we have played at the same venue a few times Zion Flute and drum festival just want you to know I am proud to see how far you have gone in your beautiful journey with the Native flute....also I am humble enough to admit I learn from many others journey and often watch you for different techniques etc...I am always pushing myself beyond my self and it is always nice to find young jedi flute players as yourself that teach some of the old dogs new tricks...you are a blessing and gift to the world old friend.... SWB

[@TheConsciousEvolutionchannel]

He, he, he chills! I have been playing bass guitar on and off for 35 years so those frequencies made me smile! I love all the different styles, keys, and makes of native flutes but I gotta get me a bass one for sure!

[@JonnyLipford]

Rock on!

[@timbacchus]

When I bought my first bass flute I was surprised that you don't need a lot of breath. They are truly wonderful instruments. And yes the holes are larger. Thanks so much for these tips. Peace and Happiness.

[@JonnyLipford]

Thanks, Tim! Glad you found these helpful. See you in AZ soon!

[@Tezzajg]

Great Tips Johnny, when I make Bass Flutes I always ask the customer if they want off set finger holes or straight, and if they do, then what hand do they play on the bottom, as once off set then it is not interchangeable between right or left on bottom like straight holes are, and if they also want it side blown or straight, but with a G or F# I always recommend side blown, unless they are 6'ft 6"inch and have very long arms.

[@JonnyLipford]

That's very thoughtful of you! It's important to ask these questions. I think many flute players don't really think about the size or strain that are associated with bass flutes. They are mostly sold on the sound that comes from them! I appreciate all that you do, Terry!

[@ernestmadrid1011]

I always wondered about the base flute I think after watching this video I'm sold on finding me a good one thank you loving your videos best I've seen

[@JonnyLipford]

Thank you. If you're really serious about furthering your journey with the flute, check out HorizonsFluteSchool.com

[@myaccountagain]

Some really good tips there. Now we can all go and dust of the monster flutes we have and with these tips be able to tame them a little better.

[@sherryb9770]

Worked for me. One monster flute no longer gathering dust!

[@JonnyLipford]

Yeaahhh!

[@williamschnippert3932]

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️Awesome!!!

[@JonnyLipford]

I know how much you love your bass flutes, Bill! :) Thanks for watching!

[@robertbrunston5406]

Good advice! Thank you.

[@JonnyLipford]

You're very welcome!

[@badsherlockian2062]

Thanks! That was really helpful! :-)

[@JonnyLipford]

You're welcome! Glad to hear it!

[@al7ps317]

Amazing channel, great channel, learning so much

[@JonnyLipford]

Glad you're having a good time and learning some new things! I appreciate you being here!

[@BrentAdams]

Great job on Bass Flute playing tips.

[@JonnyLipford]

Thanks, Brent. As you know, there are many more factors and tips. It's hard not to go overboard on some of these things-and many issues with bass flutes are very personal. These are just at the top of the list and I find to be most common.

[@penelopehammerton2907]

Very informative, thank you for sharing your knowledge.

[@JonnyLipford]

Glad it was helpful!

[@debbiedolphin784]

Thank you for the tips!!

[@JonnyLipford]

Happy to help!

[@AMYWATTShomeproamy]

Wow. Great intel. Thanks

[@JonnyLipford]

My pleasure!

[@deefly24]

This is super helpful - I have an E-bass flute and I have struggled a bit - this makes so much sense!

[@JonnyLipford]

Glad it was helpful! Flute on!

[@ronsarchery6378]

Just received the D Minor with the long air chamber. It is amazing. Yep, I quickly figured out not to hold it out. But now it wets out quicker, so I just don't play it as long. It is such a pleasure to play.

[@CDA129]

Thank you

[@JonnyLipford]

Absolutely! Glad I could help you out!

[@clayc124]

Thanks for the tips.

[@JonnyLipford]

You're welcome! Happy to help!

[@NATHUBIKANERI]

Nice work dear flutist wonderful

[@JonnyLipford]

Thank you!

[@polypx]

Thanks! Your videos are so useful.

[@JonnyLipford]

Glad you like them!

[@thewildernessphilosopher]

Thank you sir. Appreciate it.

[@JonnyLipford]

You're very welcome!

[@chrisb6319]

Thank you for this video that someone texted me the link. I have a contra base F# and tho it is almost 3 feet and 2" bore, I am getting used to it but always back off when my wrist is ouchy...One thing I havent tried is the side stance - trying it for sure.

[@sherryb9770]

This video got my Low C off the flute rack. I was having a difficult time with it. So happy to get it going finally!

[@JonnyLipford]

Ah! Good to hear!

[@southernshenanigans3069]

I LOVE my base flutes.

[@JonnyLipford]

Yes, the base flutes seem to have a gravitating resonance with many people.

[@fdnyjery]

Great Video Jonny, It amazes me that 1 man can have so much knowledge about NAF .Just viewed it for the 1st time and picked up so much from you ,but I know I will be going back to it this afternoon because I know for sure I missed a lot of information :o(( Thank You for all you do for the NAF community!!

[@JonnyLipford]

I learn better when I'm given a chance to review things multiple times at different points in my journey as sometimes I'm not ready to receive the information, or it's over my head. This way, I can come back when I'm can fully realize and absorb the lesson!

[@mariomcdonald4517]

Thank you very much for the tips, I was having some issues with my wrist and your tip about twisting the flute really has helped me a lot.

[@JonnyLipford]

Great to hear! Thanks for watching and stay tuned for more helpful tips!

[@camilomartinezgrez1263]

Thank you brother

[@JonnyLipford]

You're welcome!

[@camilomartinezgrez1263]

@@JonnyLipford I wrote you a dm to your ig! Could you please see it and give me advice on a flute I received and maybe change? Also do you do online lessons

[@reynaldoreveles5301]

Very informative thank,you,Will try the du du du,nu nu nu, and more aware of breath conttrol.

[@JonnyLipford]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching and chiming in!

[@addaptinginthedark]

Helpful video, thank you. I've ignored a lot of advice, and bought low D and low C flutes for my very first flutes (I know not bass but still things they advize beginners not to get). I knew they'd come with a much bigger learning curve, but that low beautiful sound is what drew me to the naf. Also the quieter playing is easier in an apartment with neighbors who may not enjoy my early learning days as much as I will. So, I'm anticipating a challenge, but also an exciting adventure.

[@JonnyLipford]

You can do it! Follow what inspires you and brings you the most joy in your playing!

[@BROKE-N-NATIVE5789]

👍 💖GRT TiPs!

[@DeepBreathAwakening]

your voice is very relaxing and soothing very meditative, thank you for the teachings and great tips

[@JonnyLipford]

Wow, thank you!

[@DeepBreathAwakening]

@@JonnyLipford you could create guided Meditation Videos

[@mindcave]

Got a UL G# from Colyn Peterson from Woodland Voices flutes. The man is a master builder! It's exquisite.

[@chrisb6319]

OMG If you ever have a Colyn Peterson you want to sell, Please let me know.

[@mindcave]

@@chrisb6319 I only managed to get the one before he ceased taking orders unfortunatly.

[@peterbeaumont]

Love watching your tutorials and tips. I've been struggling with trying to play mine ... having played flageolet for many years in a Celtic band I thought it would be an easy transition, but not so. Stumpy (and arthritic) fingers have caused me to assume a quite unorthodox way of playing lol. Perseverance ... sure some day I'll reach beginner level if I keep adopting your advice 🤣 THANK YOU for your great videos 🙏

[@JonnyLipford]

You are most welcome, Peter! Flute on! Never give up.

[@christinehoude6671]

Hi, Johnny! Really loved this tutorial!! It speaks directly to my sad dilemma--great love for contrabass flutes vs small hands. 😔 Do you know of any flute makers you would feel good about recommending who make contra bass flutes in the style of Stephen De Ruby's EZ Reach Contrabass Deep Mystic flutes? Please not JD Flutes or High Spirits. If you can take the time to respond, I'd really appreciate it! I love your tutorials and music! A rare combination--great musician and teacher! Best regards, Christine Houde

[@JonnyLipford]

You could contact Brad Young of 4 Wind Flutes, 4windflutes.com, Miguel Medina at Singing Tree Flutes, singingtreeflutes.com or Brent Haines at Woodsounds, woodsounds.com. These are just a few custom flute makers that can work with you directly for your needs. Probably a side blow design is in your future! Good 🍀 luck!

[@carolloughridge8483]

I really would like to see native style or native American flute makers experiment with flutes that are bigger around as opposed to longer fatter flutes shorter flutes inside blown or transverse flutes in the base ranges because those are much easier for those of us who have trouble with our right hand on the low notes so if anyone is thinking about making side blown bass Native American Flute‘s or flips with a fatter bore instead of longer you have a great three cheers from me go for it maybe I’ll see you and buy one

[@JonnyLipford]

I'm sure some flute makers will be reading your post and suggestions. We'll see if there are any takers! Thanks for listening!

[@Daktyl]

Great video! I wondering if you could recommend a major scale bass flute?, every one I find is pentatonic

[@JonnyLipford]

Thanks for asking! You can play any minor pentatonic flute in several major scales including the easiest relative major scale. As far as recommending a bass flute, sometimes the upper register notes of the Relative Major scale are very difficult to achieve on a bass flute. That could be why they are not very common. The Diatonic Major scale might work. Any of the current flute makers can custom build what you are asking for. I would suggest you contact them directly.

[@ChiefPoints]

Great tips, Jonny, very useful. I started out on a mid C, even though I wanted to go straight for the bass flutes - probably the best decision I made in this odyssey. After a month on that, the bass flutes were no problem with fingering, but I learned the difference in breath control on that first note ;) Every tip you gave is dead on, will help a lot of people enjoy their bass flutes even more - and avoid some pain.

[@HWCism]

Thank you. Good tips.

[@JonnyLipford]

It's smart of you to work your way into the bass flutes. They aren'y for the faint of heart! Glad you found the tips handy!

[@JonnyLipford]

Harry, thanks for the comment!

[@amandasteven1400]

a little pain never hurt anybody

[@bjaylucero902]

I love the sound of the Natives American' s traditional flutes, so I'm interested in buying a good flute with a beautiful sound, Can you recommend me one flute for a beginner. Thank You

[@JonnyLipford]

Hi Bjay, I typically start students with the Little Horse Native American Flute made from Cedar: www.jonnylipfordmusic.com/collections/native-american-flutes/products/little-horse-native-american-flute It's usually a good size to start with, especially if you don't have alot of experience with woodwinds. I do carry a flute that's a little larger, if you're looking for a bit lower tone. That can be found here: www.jonnylipfordmusic.com/collections/native-american-flutes/products/two-feathers-native-american-flute There are many options when it comes to starting with the Native flute. The flutes that I recommended above are quality, well-tuned and very affordable in comparison to some other starter flutes. That's why I carry them. Let me know if you have any other questions. I'm launching a beginner tutorial program in the next month, so stay tuned! Best of luck and let me know if I can be of any assistance in your flute journey! JL

[@emilywhite5459]

Hi Jonny thanks for the great videos! Which bass flute would you recommend for smaller hands?

[@JonnyLipford]

You could start with a Low C, which can be considered the highest of the bass flutes but it is still in the 4th octave. If you buy a flute with a larger bore, the holes will be closer together, but also bigger which could still be a problem with small hands. The best thing would be to explore different flute maker designs and find something as close to what you already have as possible. Also, requesting offset finger holes and a side blow mouthpiece design will help a lot.

[@shamarnephesh]

I am looking to purchase a bass flute. I like the feel of F.

[@JonnyLipford]

Hey there! An F Bass (F3) flute is very low and not commonly available except by special commission with a custom flute maker. A few flute makers you might try with that key in mind: 4Wind Flutes, Heartsong Flutes, Jon Norris Music & Arts, Falcon Flutes and Woodsounds Flutes. There are many others out there who could probably get the job done for you too! Best wishes! Here's a recent build from Singing Tree Flutes in F#, not F. Maybe? kzbin.info/www/bejne/nZq4eWOpqZuLps0

[@marciacunningham5877]

I put a 45 degree angle on the mouth piece of large flutes. Not traditional, but I am more interested in making things work. I, also, never put a third hole down on my flutes it is unnecessary and is bothersome to keep covered. A five hole flute can do anything a six hole flute can do. I really like your videos. I have subscribed. Michael

[@JonnyLipford]

You are correct in your comparison of the abilities of the 5 versus 6 hole flute. I have a preference for the 6 hole as the transitions between some notes are easier.

[@Bladerunner55217]

Wow thanks. I did correct all my body and hand adjustments you showed. I can now go up and down the holes with comfort and produce solid notes. I have a contra bass c I think and it has a leather strap covering 3rd hole from the mouth hole side. Is that how it’s supposed to be set up? When I try to find songs to learn like last of the Mohicans everyone has the 3rd hole open . Hope you can direct me in the right path. Thanks Tony

[@JonnyLipford]

Fantastic! The basic pentatonic scale is played with the 3rd hole from the top closed. Some flute makers will provide a leather strap to help newbies in keeping that hole covered. You will want to remove that as soon as you are comfortable, as there are several notes in the full chromatic scale that are played with that hole open. Check out all the available notes a Native American flute can play here: www.jonnylipfordmusic.com/pages/chromatic-scale-free. Getting all these notes can be difficult for a bass flute, but most mid-range and higher flutes can achieve them. Explore!

[@Bladerunner55217]

@@JonnyLipford thank you

[@theomnetwork3898]

What brand of native America flute are you playing in this video? And what key is it in? Love the sound of it

[@JonnyLipford]

This is a low Bb3 from Randy Stenzel formerly of Feather Ridge Flutes. No longer available. kzbin.info/www/bejne/e4CmfYyoYsmrqLs

[@adrianojedaf]

wow this is amazing! where can I buy one online? I need to get one!

[@JonnyLipford]

There are many flute makers who create bass flutes. I do sell these :www.jonnylipfordmusic.com/collections/native-american-style-flutes/products/native-sunrise-flutes-mid-low-range?variant=39675874017448, and these: www.jonnylipfordmusic.com/collections/native-american-style-flutes/products/deep-resonance-native-american-style-flutes-bass-flutes

[@garywahrlich7638]

Thanks again Jonny I have about 4 bass flutes and find them all challenging. The tonguing tips I find useful. Two of my bass flutes, a DeRuby in E and a High Spirits in G are so breathy I find them almost unplayable. Can you recommend a good Bass flute maker?

[@myaccountagain]

Gary Wahrlich pat haran makes awesome bass flutes 😃

[@JonnyLipford]

Gary, sorry to hear about the breathy-ness in your flutes! Make sure things are aligned properly with your block, flue and splitting edge. Sometimes we have to fiddle with this area a little bit. I would recommend checking out Brad Young of 4 Wind Flutes, Colyn Peterson of Woodland Voices or Pat Haran. Hope this helps!

[@felixleblanc2827]

Where can i buy a C native flute, thanks !

[@chasmdance1]

Thank you Jonny. I'd like to learn to play a Native American Flute and the sound of the Low D resonates with me (the only one i'd like to play). Unfortunately I am a woman with small hands. Do you have any suggestions/know who makes one with low D key for small hands? thank you

[@JonnyLipford]

I might recommend that you contact a flute maker whose instruments appeal to you and ask for the measurements. If you can supply to the flute maker measurements for an instrument that you are comfortable with for comparison, that would help. Most flute makers will be happy to work with you directly to accommodate your needs! Here is a link with info on may different makers if you need some ideas on who is out there. kzbin.info/aero/PLgElgGCUZhMBkQdri87gsZx6viAdSpOKl

[@chasmdance1]

@@JonnyLipford Thank you so much Jonny!

[@ELizabeth_33]

Can you suggest me a shop for buying this kind of Native American bass Flute?

[@JonnyLipford]

Hey, there! Thanks for tuning in! The maker of this particular bass flute is deceased but there are many other great flute makers out there. I might suggest that you go through my flute review playlist and pick out the bass reviews. You may be attracted to a particular flute maker. You will have a much better idea of what you like in sound and make an informed purchase this way. kzbin.info/aero/PLgElgGCUZhMBkQdri87gsZx6viAdSpOKl

[@juliotancredi7468]

Hello... Where can we buy the bass flute that you are demonstrating with? I mean the exact same flute.

[@JonnyLipford]

Hey Lee, this flute is a low Bb minor made by the late Randy Stenzel of Feather Ridge Flutes. Unfortunately, Randy passed away a few years ago. His flutes are incredible and now hard to find. Rarely, you might run across one on ebay or on some flute groups on Facebook for sale, but it's rare and they go fast. I would recommend getting in touch with Brad Young of 4 Wind Flutes www.4windflutes.com/ for a flute of this size and key.

[@juliotancredi7468]

@@JonnyLipford Thank you so much!

[@thesupersoundoftrieste]

where is possible to buy a bass native american flute in europe?? (Italy)

[@JonnyLipford]

Hi! Thanks for watching! You might give these folks a try: indianerfloete.de

[@raulgutierrez9902]

How much do bass flutes run

[@JonnyLipford]

Oh, boy. I have seen them from mid-100s ($350-400) into multiple thousands of dollars. It really depends on the maker. You would do well to shop among makers and find some that fit your budget. Keep in mind, that price is not a solid indicator of sound quality. Try to find some sound samples from the makers you are interested in.

[@gregb3443]

What's the key on the bass flute you are playing?

[@JonnyLipford]

That is a low Bb. kzbin.info/www/bejne/e4CmfYyoYsmrqLs

[@prakasavigraha6104]

I probably clicked on the wrong video as a first ever about native American flutes.

[@JonnyLipford]

LOL! Welcome to my channel and to our community! I hope you like what you see! very easy to learn instrument.

[@martydixon647]

I count 50 flutes, including the bass.

[@JonnyLipford]

That rack actually holds 72 (and it's not the only flute stand that I have!) :)

[@Danielscottschiffer]

Is that a c or d ? Ok B flat !

[@Qusefoof]

you have like 1,000 of them!! donate flute to charity. I am charity

[@jonny_mazerati9410]

You are cute

[@jasoncook4008]

I have a question for you . I have had the same back surgery twice & it's hard for me to stand for a while & I've also have so much arthritis in my back that some of it has moved to the base of my neck & when the arthritis in my neck flares up it causes the tips of my fingers to go numb & I can't feel if I have the holes on my flutes covered . Is their anything I can get to put on the tips of my fingers to help cover the holes or is there a different way I should try & use to cover the holes . If you could make a video on what to do in this situation that would be great . Thanks for the help .

[@JonnyLipford]

One thing that might help you would be to play higher key flutes. The holes will be smaller and much easier to cover accurately. See how a B4 or C5 works for you. Also, this flute that I sell has fairly small finger holes for an A minor: www.jonnylipfordmusic.com/collections/native-american-style-flutes/products/adventure-native-american-style-flute-a-minor. You won't have to be spot on accurate to get the holes covered here. The high C and B flutes that you might try are also sold here: www.jonnylipfordmusic.com/collections/native-american-style-flutes.