The recorder, or blockflöte as it's called in German, is a sweet and sensitive instrument no less capable of heart-felt song than any other musical expression.

It is very capable of being a voice for our natural community -- an important intention for musicians in this era of ecological crisis.  And when made from a tree branch, there is the added enchantment from the spirit of the tree herself.  Just holding and looking at a one-of-a-kind branch recorder, with its contrasting textures and mix of colors can inspire an appreciation for the beauty, complexity and magic of nature.  

Up-rootedness and disconnection from the natural world have hobbled Western civilization since the forces of empire cut down the sacred groves in Europe and persecuted those who tried to hold on to their indigenous knowledge and wisdom.  So, here is a recorder made from an oak branch that a druid might play, under the sacred oaks.  Or anyone wanting to deepen or heal their relationship with our Earth Mother or with the animistic essence of life. 

There are several major and minor scales available for the player to choose from on this branch recorder, within its seven finger holes/one thumb hole, German fingering design.  The sound chamber has been slightly tapered to help facilitate the upper register notes, though not to the degree of modern recorders.  Also, I chose to narrow the sound chamber opening at the bottom end of the recorder with crushed abalone shell inlay, which helps facilitate upper register notes and aids in fine tuning the flute.  Crushed abalone has also been inlaid in the knots of the branch, adding the magic of their iridescence. 
 

  ~    In working with the idiosyncrasies of one-of-a-kind tree branches, I found it more practical to place the block on top of the carved windway, rather than inserting it into the body of the flute, under the windway, as has traditionally been done with lathe turned recorders.  This also allows for the refining of the voice throughout the tuning process, before the block is finally secured.   

  ~   Eastern Red Cedar has been laminated into the bottom of the block as well as into the windway, window and labium area.  This helps to delay breath moisture accumulation (wetout) and prevent wood rot and wood movement.  It also sweetens the flute's voice.  Traditionally, cedar has been used in recorder making only for the block. 

  ~   The mouth end of the windway has been opened up to help stabilize the player's breath.  This was inspired by the design of the European flageolet and by my experience playing and making native American style flutes. 

Wishing you many natural blessings,

Price: $749.00, plus shipping This includes: Padded Drawstring Flute Bag made by Sabine 15 Day Return Policy

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