Sacred Breath: The Art of Native American Flute Making

Join master craftsman and musician Guillermo Martinez for a hands-on journey into the art of Native American flute making. Working with cedar wood and the patient rhythms of handcraft, you’ll create a Native American-style flute of your own — shaped, tuned, finished, and ready to play.

Throughout the workshop, you’ll be guided step by step through the process. Beginning with a prepared cedar blank, you’ll learn how to glue and shape the wood, gradually bringing the form of the flute to life. You’ll then explore the delicate process of tuning before applying the finishing touches that make each instrument uniquely your own.

For those who wish to continue exploring, optional evening sessions will offer lessons in playing the flute — discovering breath, tone, and melody.

More than a woodworking project, this workshop is an invitation to slow down and enter into the creative process: to listen closely, work patiently, and experience the transformation of a simple piece of cedar into an instrument capable of carrying your breath and tune.

It has been more than 15 years since this flute-making workshop has been offered. No previous woodworking or musical experience is necessary. All tools will be provided. Join us and leave Esalen with a cedar flute you have shaped, tuned, and brought to life with your own hands and spirit.

This workshop includes a $250 material fee.