Geoffrey Ellis NAF, G# Magen Avot Scale

A distinctive Native American style flute voiced in G# and tuned to the Magen Avot scale, a mode rooted in Ashkenazic Jewish liturgical tradition. The Magen Avot mode takes its name from a paragraph in the Me'ein Sheva prayer, which follows the Amidah in the Friday evening service. Musically it most closely resembles the natural minor scale from the Western tradition, and its simplicity is associated with the peaceful atmosphere of Shabbat. Putting this scale into a Native American style flute format makes for an unusual and meditative instrument, well suited to contemplative solo playing.

The flute has six finger holes plus a thumb hole. Wood type is unconfirmed. The instrument is used but in very good condition. Comes with a canvas travel bag.

About the Maker

Geoffrey Ellis has been a respected maker of world flutes since 1997, working from the redwood forest of Northern California. His output spans a wide variety of folk flutes from many cultures, including Irish flutes, Chinese Xiao, Indian Bansuri, Japanese Shakuhachi, and rim blown flutes inspired by the Pueblo peoples of the American Southwest. He is self-taught and has benefitted from working closely with professional musicians as well as other makers. His ongoing collaborations have resulted in a portfolio of world flutes played by amateur and professional musicians around the globe.