Charles Littleleaf
Charles Littleleaf, a Native American flute player and flute maker, is a tribal member of the Warm Springs Indian Reservation, Oregon. Charles is also an honorary member of the Piikani Nation, Alberta, Canada, and is the son of the late Chief Jack Littleleaf of Brocket, Alberta.
Charles Littleleaf | |
|---|---|
 Charles Littleleaf at Smith Rock State Park, Oregon | |
| Background information | |
| Born | Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, Oregon, United States |
| Genres | Native American |
| Occupation(s) | Musician, flute maker |
| Instrument(s) | Native American flute |
| Years active | 1995–present |
| Labels | Littleleaf Music |
| Website | https://www.eaglecanyonflutes.com |
Native American flute player
In 1992, Warm Springs tribal member, Charles Littleleaf, received a flute from Native American flutist, R. Carlos Nakai. Nakai's gift was intended to encourage Charles to learn the instrument. The following year, Nakai held one of the first Native American flute workshops at the Feathered Pipe Ranch in Helena, Montana and invited Charles to attend.
The Feather Pipe workshop lasted two weeks and it was here, amidst players much more technically versed in music, where Charles learned one of the best lessons regarding the traditional flute: that playing from the heart and spirit is where some of the most beautiful Native American flute music will come from.
In search of ways to further express his heart, Charles continued to play the flute without instruction. Through these instruments, he also found an emotional way to release healing qualities that would not only benefit himself but all of mankind. At the beginning of this musical journey, Charles played the flute at the home of his ancestors, primarily to family and friends. This is where the first samples of Charles' music developed.
Years later, Charles continues playing and enjoying the native flute. He has grounded his flute playing within the essence of Mother Earth and from memories growing up on his reservation which he shares with audiences around the world.
Native American flute maker
Charles Littleleaf has been creating concert Native American flutes for over 15 years for both professionals and beginners alike.
Discography
- Whispers of Earth Medicine 1997, Littleleaf Music (formerly Redwood Productions)
- Ancient Reflections 2002, Littleleaf Music
- Essence of Life 2019, Littleleaf Music
Collaboration
- Heart of the Wolf (flute/vocals with Karen Therese) 2001, Red Feather Music
Credits
- Just Plain Folks Award for 'Song of the Year', Eagle Spirit from artist's Ancient Reflections CD, Los Angeles, CA (2008)
- Featured article in Celebrity Magazine, Cowboys and Indians (Sept. 2007)
- Artist documentary on flute making and biography, Oregon Art Beat, Oregon Public Broadcasting (2004)
- Music soundtrack for the documentary The Oregon Story, Tribal Economies, Oregon Public Broadcasting (2001)
- Native American Music Award (NAMA) Nominee (2001)