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Unique Flutes with Native American Tunings

Handcrafted by Keith Glowka

A Message From the Flute Maker

Most of the flutes made by me are of a type of instrument known as a “gemshorn,” an aerophone of medieval Europe.  It is the instrument from which the recorder evolved.  References and drawings of the gemshorn date back to as early as 1511, as shown in the illustration.  They are quite rare today.

The gemshorns I build are different.  They are tuned to match the scale that has become the standard for Native American flutes (mode 1, minor pentatonic).  With this tuning, they are easy to play and very expressive.  Most are made with a very native material, the horns of the American bison (buffalo).  Some changes from traditional building have been made that produce a clearer tone and prevent moisture from interfering. These flutes will not “water out.”  They will provide many years of meditative and peaceful playing.

Thirteen years of research and much trial-and-error were spent before I produced gemshorns that could proudly be offered for sale.  Luckily, that came at about the same time I retired from a twenty-seven year career of teaching elementary school!

In addition to buffalo horns, gemshorn flutes made from other exotic horns are also available.  All horns are finished with natural wax materials and buffed to a high gloss.  They come with a fleece carrying bag and a detailed instruction booklet.

Many recording artists in the Native American flute genre have purchased my gemshorn flutes.  I’m sure you will also find them a pleasure to play.

                                                          In song,

                                                                   Keith Glowka

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