The Native American flute is one of the most accessible instruments in the world to start playing — and one of the deepest to keep playing. There are no complicated fingerings, no embouchure to develop, no music theory required to make a sound that feels true. Many of my students play a recognizable melody within their first lesson.
Who lessons are for
I work with three kinds of players, and the lessons adapt to where you are:
- True beginners — you have never picked up a flute, or you've just received one and you're not sure where to start. We cover holding the flute, breath, basic fingerings, your first songs, and how to practice between sessions.
- Returning beginners — you played a little while ago, lost the rhythm, and want to come back. We pick up where you left off, refresh technique, and find music that keeps you wanting to practice.
- Intermediate players — you can play traditional songs and want to grow into improvisation, breath control, ornamentation, or playing for others. We work on the things that feel just out of reach.
Online or in person
Online lessons happen over Zoom and are open to students anywhere in the world. The Native American flute teaches well over video — the camera shows fingerings clearly, and the music is intimate enough that audio carries well. I keep flexible hours to accommodate time zones across Asia-Pacific, the Americas, and Europe.
In-person lessons are available in Sydney through late 2026, and in North Carolina from 2027 onward. If you're nearby and prefer to learn in the same room, please mention it when you reach out.
What a lesson looks like
Each session is one hour. A typical lesson moves through:
- A short warm-up — breath and tone, to settle into the instrument
- A skill focus — fingerings, ornamentation, song structure, or whatever the moment needs
- A song or piece to work on — chosen to match your level and what you find beautiful
- Improvisation practice — for students ready to explore creating music in the moment
- Practice notes — what to work on between lessons, sent in writing after each session
I don't require any background in music or any prior instrument. If you can breathe, you can play this flute.
If you don't have a flute yet
You'll need a Native American flute to play. I recommend starting with a key of A or G — they're the most common, the most forgiving, and they sound right in most rooms. Many of my own flutes are made by Woodsounds, who craft beginner-friendly instruments without compromising tone. I'm happy to advise on a first flute purchase before your first lesson.
Pricing
AUD $75 / hour
Single lessons or multi-lesson packages available. Reach out for details on package pricing.
Frequently asked
Do I need to read music?
No. Native American flute music is traditionally played by ear, and we'll work from a mix of tablature, sound, and demonstration. Reading music is welcome but never required.
How often should I practice between lessons?
Even ten or fifteen minutes a few times a week makes a real difference, especially in the first few months. The flute responds to consistency more than to long sessions.
How quickly will I be able to play a song?
Most students play a simple, recognizable song within their first or second lesson. Sounding good takes a little longer — beautiful tone is the work of months, not weeks — but the satisfaction starts immediately.
What time zones do you teach in?
From Sydney, I teach mornings (good for Europe and the Americas) and evenings (good for Asia-Pacific). After my move to North Carolina in early 2027, the time-zone math shifts — I'll keep flexible hours either way.
Do you offer a free intro call?
Yes — a brief 15-minute conversation is welcome before your first lesson, especially if you're considering buying a first flute. Mention it when you reach out.
Can I gift lessons to someone?
Yes. Lessons make a thoughtful gift for someone curious about the flute. Reach out and I'll arrange a gift package.