R. Carlos Nakai, a name synonymous with the hauntingly beautiful sounds of the Native American flute, stands as a towering figure in contemporary world music. While his music is deeply rooted in the traditions of his Navajo-Ute heritage, Nakai’s journey to becoming the world’s premier Native American flutist is a testament to his dedication to research, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of musical excellence. Nakai is a Native American flutist, musician, composer, and educator.
A Legacy Forged in Sound
Nakai’s story is not one of simply inheriting a musical tradition. While the Diné (Navajo people) once held a strong flute-playing tradition, it gradually faded as they migrated from the Northwest Plains of Canada to the Southwest over five centuries ago. This historical context makes Nakai’s achievements all the more remarkable. He wasn’t "born to the flute" in the traditional sense; rather, it was a profound curiosity about his cultural heritage that sparked his interest and ultimately led him to embrace the instrument.
The Genesis of a Flutist
The late 1960s marked the beginning of Nakai’s exploration into American Indian music and traditional instruments. Among the diverse array of musical artifacts, the wooden flute captivated his attention. However, it wasn’t until 1972 that he committed himself to mastering the instrument. Prior to this pivotal moment, Nakai’s musical energies were primarily focused on classical training, honing his skills on the cornet and trumpet. This foundation in classical music would later prove invaluable, providing him with a unique perspective and technical prowess that would set him apart.
The Art of Flute Making: A Journey of Discovery
Driven by his characteristic determination to acquire a comprehensive understanding of the instrument, Nakai embarked on the challenging path of crafting his own flutes. This hands-on experience provided him with invaluable insights into the intricacies of flute construction and the nuances of sound production. Initially, Nakai experimented with oak as his primary material. However, he soon learned from a seasoned flute-making teacher that cedar is the preferred wood for crafting these instruments, prized for its resonant qualities and workability.
Furthermore, Nakai discovered that flute making is not governed by rigid formulas or standardized dimensions. The placement of finger holes and the dimensions of the air column are meticulously determined based on the individual hand and finger measurements of the maker, rendering each flute a unique creation. This inherent variability results in instruments with distinct sounds and pitches, adding an element of delightful randomness to the tonality of each flute.
A Sound Sculpture: The Flute as Art
Nakai’s perception of the flute transcends its conventional role as a mere musical instrument. He views each flute as a "sound sculpture," a tangible piece of art that possesses the remarkable ability to generate sound. This perspective highlights Nakai’s deep appreciation for the aesthetic qualities of the flute, recognizing its intrinsic beauty as an object of art.
Preserving a Legacy: Ensuring Cultural Continuity
A central tenet of Nakai’s artistic philosophy is his unwavering commitment to ensuring that the native flute does not become a "museum piece" relegated to the annals of a bygone culture. Through his original compositions and his collaborative musical endeavors, Nakai seeks to showcase the instrument’s versatility and capabilities, demonstrating its enduring relevance in contemporary music.
A Fusion of Traditions: Blending Classical and Native Sounds
Over the past three decades, Nakai has masterfully blended his classical training with his profound knowledge of the cedar flute, forging a complex and sophisticated sound that reveals the flute’s unique sonic characteristics while simultaneously traversing a vast spectrum of musical genres. From devotional meditations to electrifying jazz ensembles and grand symphonic works, Nakai’s music defies categorization, embracing a boundless creativity that knows no limits. Furthermore, Nakai employs electronic technology, such as synthesizers and digital delay, to create entirely new sonic textures for the flute, pushing the boundaries of its expressive potential.
Cultural Influences: The Southwest as Muse
As a native Arizonan, Nakai’s work is deeply influenced by the landscapes of the Southwest, as well as his cultural heritage. He observes, "A lot of what I’ve been taught culturally comes from an awareness of the environment. How I feel is based on my impressions of being in certain spaces at certain times. Thinking back on personal tribal stories and the history of my culture figures into how I organize my music." This profound connection to the land and the stories of his ancestors serves as a constant source of inspiration, shaping the emotional and thematic content of his music.
Collaborations: Philosophical Communication
While solo flute albums form the core of his extensive discography, Nakai is equally passionate about collaborating with other musicians. He views collaborations as "philosophical communication between musicians," providing opportunities to explore uncharted musical territories and transcend traditional cultural boundaries.
His diverse range of projects includes "Island of Bows," a collaborative effort with a Japanese group featuring acoustic and traditional Japanese instruments; "Red Wind," with luthier and guitarist William Eaton and percussionist Will Clipman; "Winds of Devotion" with Tibetan flutist Nawang Khechog; "Inside Monument Valley" with silver flutist Paul Horn; and "Ancient Future" with his Native Jazz group, the R. Carlos Nakai Quartet. He has also recorded two symphonic CDs featuring classical pieces written specifically for him by Arizona composer James DeMars. His recent project, "Native Voices," is a collaboration with Hawaiian Slack Key guitarist Keola Beamer. The "Native Voices" project shows R. Carlos Nakai‘s commitment to collaborations.
Beyond the Concert Hall: Film and Television Scores
Nakai’s talents extend beyond the realm of concert performances and studio recordings. He has also composed and performed scores for a wide range of film and television projects, including selections for the National Park Service, Fox Television, the Discovery Channel, IMAX, the National Geographic Society, and numerous commercial productions.
Accolades and Recognition: A Legacy of Success
In addition to his artistic achievements, Nakai has garnered unprecedented commercial recognition, including six Grammy nominations and the distinction of being the first traditional Native American musician to receive two Gold Records. A prolific musician and composer, he has released 37 albums through commercial distribution, with 28 of those albums released on the Canyon Records label. Just counting his Canyon Records titles, Nakai has surpassed 3,500,000 units sold worldwide. This staggering sales figure is a testament to the widespread appeal and enduring popularity of his music.
A Global Ambassador: Touring and Lecturing
When Nakai is not immersed in recording, composing, or researching, he spends his year touring extensively throughout the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Japan, performing and lecturing on Native American culture and philosophy. He views these engagements as vital opportunities to share his music and his insights with audiences around the world, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for Native American traditions.
Embracing Life: A Philosophy of Totality
Nakai’s life philosophy is rooted in the belief that "We were put on the earth to experience life in its totality. And if you’re not doing that, you’re essentially wasting your time." This profound statement encapsulates Nakai’s unwavering commitment to living a full and meaningful life, embracing new experiences, and continuously expanding his horizons. The R. Carlos Nakai project is a testament to that life philosophy.
R. Carlos Nakai’s impact on the world of music is undeniable. His dedication to the Native American flute, his innovative approach to composition, and his commitment to cultural preservation have cemented his legacy as a true musical visionary. His music is more than just a collection of notes; it is a powerful expression of cultural identity, a testament to the enduring power of tradition, and an invitation to connect with the natural world. The sound of R. Carlos Nakai is unique and evocative.