Sitting with Magpie
 
This flute was inspired by a beautiful experience I had with a fledgling Magpie. As I was driving down a farm track near my home I witnessed what was probably this birds first flight. She came down in the long grass at the side of the track. I stopped my car and walked over to see if she was ok after her what appeared to be a pretty rough landing. To my relief she was fine and looking up a me with wonder and curiosity. I slowly sat down on the grass beside her and let her know that I meant no harm. I just wanted to say hi and make sure she was safe. She was calm and didn’t run away. Very courageous I would say. I began to speak with her about this world and dangers that the 2 legged ones have created. Things like cars, planes, plastic and much more. I advised her to stay far away from these things as best she could. I told her how beautiful I think she and how grateful I am to be sitting here having this conversation. She then looked right into my eyes and took one little step towards me. I sat motionless except for the smile that grew large upon my face. We stayed like this for what seemed like an hour but in this world was but a few seconds.  I thanked her for our time together and wished her a beautiful life. She then turned and walked off into the long grass. In honour of all Magpies and their wisdom that helps us to trust our senses and find our voices, I name this flute,
Sitting with Magpie
 
This flute is best suited for someone who plays with their right hand below their left hand due to the offset finger holes.
 
She is in the key of F# tuned to 432Hz and is 51cm (20”). She is made from black bamboo. I use a combination of burning, sanding and polishing which gives each of these flutes a wonderful smooth finish and unique colour pattern. The stone inlays are Black Coal from West Virginia, Blue Lapis Lazuli and White Pearl. These represent the beautiful colours of Magpie. The block is made of Maple that my Dad foraged in Upstate New York and is held in place with leather lace from North American Whitetail Deer hide and has Malachite eyes.The lashing around the body of the flute is artificial sinew and blue and tan cotton twine. The feathers are Magpie which as always were found while I am walking with Mother Nature or gifted to me by friends.
 
Find the music within yourself