A Shared Note

The traditional Indigenous flute is honoured in many cultures for its calming, meditative sound and importance in traditional practices.

Often blended with the sounds of the land, the rivers, rain, or wind, it connects its player with nature and their spiritual self. Indigenous Nations across North America have long used the flute for storytelling, healing and in courtship. Today, its symbolism has been mostly forgotten, but Elders are seeking to restore its role and to share traditional teachings about healthy relationships with youth who have been distanced from cultural knowledge and guidance.

This summer, 30 young Indigenous Peoples (ages 12–18) will join a two-day camp in Regina for Bringing Back the Traditional Flute Project. Youth from surrounding First Nation communities will have the opportunity to reclaim traditional flute music through hands-on learning and cultural teachings. Participants will be taught about the history of the flute, stories about the music, and different playing styles, while also making their own flutes and learning how to play them. An expert player and teacher will be on-site to share his personal journey in mastering the music and why it’s important for youth to carry these teachings into the future. Indian Residential School Survivors from the Regina Survivors Circle will also be invited to share teachings on the importance of reviving language and culture. Through these teachings, youth will learn about respectful relationships, roles and responsibilities, and the deeper cultural meaning of the flute.

The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF) is proud to contribute funding to support the delivery of these camps. Dedicated support staff will be there to assist with programming and to help young Indigenous Peoples harmonize their spirits with traditional music, teachings, and intergenerational knowledge.

Archdiocese of Regina