Exploring the Arts Lecture featuring Nelson harjo

Flute Maker with the Creek Nation – Flutes have always been a part of Nelson Harjo’s life, ever since he was a child awakened by his mother’s soft rendition of Moonlight Sonata. The Harjos were a musical family, and Scottie traveled with them making music around the country. He began making flutes in 1995 after attending a class at an Oklahoma Indian Missionary conference. He was drawn to the practice as a means to reconnect with his heritage. Little did he know his passion for music would turn into a global demand for his unique instruments. He now teaches others to make the unique instrument, and has worked with children’s camps in an effort to help pass on the cultural traditions of the Muscogee (Creek) tribe.