Native Music & Culture

As I sit here tonight in Olympia, Washington, I find myself half way through the west coast leg of my ‘Horse Spirit’ U.S. Tour.  Along the way, we have shared time with many wonderful, beautiful souls, and have witnessed the healing power of this new ‘Horse Spirit’ music.  The concert experience takes the audience on a deeply moving journey, inviting all to ‘ride back into the wounds’ of the past, and rise up out the other side transformed and healed.

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The Native flute itself is an instrument that can and does heal.  It is a humble vessel, empty inside, with its ego out of the way, that allows spirit to flow freely through it.  It was born of love, and of a broken and then mended heart.  That power to mend became another of its uses, which continues to this day.  It survived terrible cultural upheaval, and is now experiencing a worldwide renaissance.  And why?  Because the world is hurting and humanity has lost its connection to the earth, to simplicity, humility and wisdom.  The essence of all Native music is its earth connection.  Whether it is a Native flute, a hand drum or a powwow drum, the songs Native people bring forth from these instruments are about connection, honor and spirit.

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With ‘Horse Spirit’, the music is weaved into a braid with the stories of the Chief Bigfoot Memorial Ride, the history of the massacre at Wounded Knee in 1890, and reflections about how we all must address our wounds in order to truly heal them, and that when we do, we restore our health, our purpose and our happiness.  The response to this musical journey has been deeply moving for me.  People are resonating with it, finding inspiration and meaning for their lives.  What an incredible, humbling honor!

Wopila (Great Thanks) to all who have come out to attend my ‘Horse Spirit’ concerts, bought the album, and connected with it’s message.  Together, we ride into the shadows, that we may claim the light....

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