“I received the flute you sent me yesterday afternoon. I cannot believe the difference in not only the appearance and feel, but the sound quality of this flute! It is so awesome! The flute is so responsive, the tone is strong and clear,it makes my other one look, feel, and sound like a toy! I kept breaking out into a smile when I was playing it and my kids were watching and grinning "Daddy's happy!" I am. The stretch on the E took a few seconds to work out and I'll occasionally duff the fundamental, but I should have it down cold soon.Thank you so much for your professionalism in the business transaction and your craftsmanship in the construction of the flute (and the special bird, it looks great!). I am just beside myself with joy! You have definitely got my business when I order my next flute (which will probably be soon, they are so addicting!)”
p.s. The song that I wanted to play along with is "Sun" from Burning Sky's album "Creation". The flute you made was in perfect pitch!
Cama'i (Aleut Greetings) John,
"I just received the flute and it's beautiful!!!!!! I loved all the cool and unique features on it, and it seems to be wonderfully in pitch... Thank you SO much! And I'm glad Vince showed me your flute! What I would appreciate, is a stack of business cards. I let my students try flutes and then they take cards and order flutes from makers whose flutes they have played in my music room. Thank you again for your gift of song!!"
"I've been enjoying playing the flute I got from you, really enjoying it's tone and note bending capabilities. I have yet to wet the flute out, so I must conclude that your wet out prevention system works. ... Well, here is the $100 that I owe you to pay off my flute. Thanks for cutting me a good deal. I will be sure to show it off, especially since it's such an eye catcher. "
“I Like the full-bodies tonal qualityof my John Stillwell flute. It is finely crafted and easy to play. The turtle fetish and turquise bead is both simple and elegant. I appreciate the time John spent in helping me get use dto my new flute and his availabiliy when I had questions to ask."
- Nancy Leventhal, Poneertown, CA
“John's flutes are as gorgeous in sound quality as they are beautiful to look at. His innovative flute style and artistic craftsmanship, makes John's flutes a must have in any serious flute players collection. As a performing artist, I am very selective about the flutes I own. I must be able to trust the sound that comes out of them. The beauty of John's flutes is what attracted me to them, but more importantly, the sound quality is what hooked me on his flutes. I own three and look forward to having many more in my collection.”
“I was lucky to win one of John's flutes on ebay. I bid on it just because of what he said on one of the listserv I belong to and seeing pictures of flute on ebay. When it arrived I was in awe, not only did it sound beautiful it looked awesome also. Very unique design, triangular type bore with vee cut inlays. The finish on it is unbelievably shiny, it literally shines and is almost translucent. I would recommend his flutes to anyone. They are of the highest quality and backed by his personal guarantee. Thanks John for creating such I flute that I treasure.”
“I recently added a flute of John Stillwell's to my collection. Not only is the combination of woods a feast for the eyes, but the tone of this F# minor flute is amazing. It can be played loudly or quietly; it is easy to find the half steps; and the tuning is impeccable. The sound is both resonant and brilliant and has inspired my playing to a new level. When I choose a flute to take with me, I readily reach for John's flute. Thank you. I'm just about ready for another!”
“The flute arrived safely this morning! WOW.. Your work is beyond words! Truly beautiful and the engineering you have put into is incredible. This is definitely not your average flute. I have about 35 or so flutes and I have some nice ones that makers have put alot of energy and effort into but this one is in a class by itself. I lost count cause I do gift some from time to time to help someone go on their flute journey. The different woods compliment each other and are definitely put together like a fine piece of furniture. And the voice...It is right on too! Very good voice........one that you can bear down on if you want to and one that will whisper if you need to !. And I have only explored this incredible instrument for a little bit !!
I usually swab my flutes down a little after playing.... removing the bird and just swabbing inside out a little ....nothing drastic. Is it OK to run a pipe cleaner from the drain hole through the mouthpiece? That is a solid piece of metal through there? WOW man this flute is something!
Mark had told me that his flute from you was fast becoming his favorite and I can see why!! Again thanks! You have taking flute making to another level ! Blessings!”
John - I was so excited that I was going to call you over the weekend, but didn't want to bother you. I got a call from my brother early Saturday morning. He had received the flute at work on Friday. You were right. He was so excited he could hardly talk. You really chose a fantastic flute for him. He just couldn't stop talking about how beautiful it was John. He has an art studio at home with good acoustics and told me he played it late Friday night. He really commented on the turquoise stone that was on it. Just a touch that he really admired that made it special. I can't thank you enough for choosing the right flute for him. I will be ordering again next year if not sooner. You truly did a great job John. Thank you for all you did for me. Thanks!
Dear John,
Tonight I came home to a wonderful surprise!! I didn't expect to get my flute so soon...so I am thrilled. It's beautiful and I am having so much fun learning to play it. I would like to get some info on a protective bag to transport it.
Thanks again and your little note was a nice touch! I love the instructions that came with it. Without those I would be lost. I look forward to hearing back from you regarding the cover.
Happy New Year!
Hi John,
Just wanted to let you know that I received the flute today in great
condition ... now ... what end do I blow into? ;-)
Seriously, it is a beautiful flute, exceeding my expectations. I love its sound and beauty and I am anxious to start enjoying the learning process.
Thanks so much and have a wonderful Holiday Season!
John,
I recently ordered one of your Backpacker flutes and received it yesterday.
Being a woodworker of sorts myself and recognizing the workmanship that goes into creating a handmade piece, I am more than happy with the quality of workmanship and ease of play....what a fine instrument!
I have never played a flute before, but have always been attracted to the calming sounds of the native American style flutes.
Within minutes, I was creating the sounds that I wanted to hear (OK, and some that I didn't.....but that's what practice is for :)
Thank You for offering such a fine, handmade instrument with clear instructions and guidance.
I will definitely be back for another......
Thanks Again,
- Paul Horrell
VP of Equipment Resources
Game Creek Video
John,
I received my flute on Saturday which happened to be my 46th birthday. I'm very pleased. It's beautiful and sounds great! I was making music in just a few minutes...not great music (yet), but it will come with practice.
Thanks again. If I ever decide to get another NA style flute, I'm sure I'll come back to you.
John.
I received my flute today, Key of A... and I would like to say that you undersell our masterpieces! It is not only beautiful, but the craftsmanship is outstanding. I was immediately taken back by the wood finish, and the beauty ( not to mention the fact that it plays as beautiful as it looks ) The flatness on the top is so well designed for my fingers. You are a genius ! Actually I'm purchasing an other one just like it as a gift to someone special. Keep the beauty in your work... as it is a reflection of your soul!
- Bel Canto Maria Concetta.
John,
I just wanted to pass on my gratitude for making this purchase a pleasant one. I knew that I had chosen the right artist to buy from when I first visited your website.
I am a musician and a woodworker also, so my appreciation of your craft is deep.
The flute arrived yesterday and I find it hard to put down. Even when I walk by the flutes resting place, I am called to pick it up and play a few notes. This instrument has already become a friend and I am sure the bond will only grow as my skills improve.
Thank you for bringing peace and beauty to my life. I will cherish this flute.
Best,
Hey John it feels like I was driving a beat up volkswagen and got into a brand new BMW the flute is so wonderful.
Wow! Thanks John. I have a beautiful handmade flute now. It is proving to be too big for my small hand. I was grateful on your web for the advice to get the A key. Your web was very helpful. I am in my almost middle 70's. The flute playing keeps my brain working. I have found great improvement in my memory - especially bringing up names since I started playing 1-2 hours a day. Good thing I enjoy it. I will look forward to receiving the flute. Are you from Maine? I stipulated flutes in Maine but you came up first! You are right about the hand made flutes.
Hello John, I received the F# flute this morning. The flute looks great, unique and not to be compared with what we see on the websites. The work is the result of the finest skill, experience, effort and passion. The sound is gentle, peaceful, quiet and melodious. It is also strong, clear and steady. Looking at it, touching it and playing it makes me feel close to nature and it teaches me how to become what I very often forget to be. It is a living instrument with which I can travel harmoniously into my own being. Thanks again for making such great flutes.
- Jean-Claude (from France)
The first flute I recived from John Stillwell was a masterpiece.I could't believe my eyes.It had an incredible voice. John and his flutes have given me something special in my life. I will always be in debt to him.
Greetings John,
Received the flute today. Wow!! Totally awesome! The look and feel is beautiful and it sounds great. I'm glad I went with the 'Collectors' model. I often ride my bike on a bike trail near my house. Looking forward to taking it with me and playing it under Gods' creation. I would highly recommend your flutes to anyone who is thinking of purchasing a Native American style flute.
A new friend,
Dear Mr. Stillwell,
I received your flute over the weekend and it was waiting for me when I came into work this morning. All I can say is it is just magnificent. It truly took my breath away. You have an incredible talent that you share through your creations. Thank you, Thank you, I feel very honored to be giving this beautiful flute to my boyfriend for his birthday. I look forward to doing business again when I purchase my own. You are truly a gifted artist. Thank you!
Thank You John. I received my flute and it is beautiful. My husband is excited about it too. We are going on a ten day backpacking trip next week in Yosemite National Park and are planning on taking my new backpacking flute with us. This is a new venture for us. I was surprised to see his interest in my flute. I guess I will have to share with him. Thanks again.
John today I played for thirty people on the river. One lady was crying she said it sounded so good it made her cry. Thanks John for making a flute that can make people cry.
John, just dropping a note to let you know my flute arrived today in the mail. It is beautiful, and I love the wood. The sound is so relaxing and a joy to play instead of just listening to someone else play. Thank you very much for your help on the phone and the very quick shipping. I can't wait to get playing it down enough to make a little song of some sort, practice, practice. Thanks again.
Hi John
Just received my flute from you on Wednesday and am very pleased at its beauty and amazing tonal quality!!!! I can fully understand what you say about the meditative quality one receives while playing the Native American Style Flute ·This flute has captured my spirit and it transports me away to that ãspecial placeä when I play it!!! This flute has already become my friend and we shall spend many hours together in the future!!! Thank you for providing me with such an amazing instrument of beauty! As for the quality of your craftsmanship --- I can only say ãAwesomeä !!!! I already have my heart set on another of your flutes·The Backpacker -- in Zebrawood, which I can take with me wile going on camping trips!
Thanks So Much, May The Winds Always Flow In Your Favor
Hi John,
Thanks for the reply. I will send the flute back to you tomorrow along with the flute payment. Perhaps Bill might have told you the story about one of your flutes that had gone to Peru with Don Francisco in the sacred apus. The whole class chipped in and bought a flute for Don Francisco. That was a very touching scene there.
My G# has been doing well and I really enjoy my F# a lot. My heart has been open for the new path and thanks to your flute medicine.
As you know, each of us has a job to do to provide with any form of sacred medicine to raise up the human vibrations, and you have done an incredible job already.
Looking forward to seeing you soon.
My husband bought me a collectors flute in cherry and walnut (in the key of F) back in February for my birthday. I have been practicing as much as I can and as often as I can. I finally have most of the base work down and am starting to be more creative with my music. Playing gives me a chance to relax and be creative at the same time. It is amazing how easy this instrument is to play. I just wanted to commend you on your fine craftsmanship. My flute is not only visually pleasing but also emits a sound that is as soothing as a summer breeze gently passing through the forrest. Thank you for creating such a wonderful instrument and for making it accessible to the public. It is a true treasure to own such a wonderful creation and will become a treasured family heirloom. Thanks again for the fine craftsmanship and for taking the time and pride in your work to create something so beautiful.
hey mr. stillwell I just wanted to write you a quick note saying that i got my flute two days ago, and it is so beutiful, i love the simple design and on top of the beauty it sounds so good. I can't get over how good it sounds, and its not hard to play at all, once i learned the scales, which took 10 minutes or so, and now i can't keep my hands off of it, i can now just pick it up and play whatever pops into my mind and i love trying new and different techniques. Just thank you so so much. I couldn't have asked for anything better.
- Sincerly, James Hills (Denver Colorado)
Dear John,
I've already started to play the Flute..Everything is alright..I even play the lowest note (no need to strech too much) and started to make a bag for it.
I am very happy to being included into this chain which is happening around the universe by the sounds of our Flutes. Now, one more of them radiates this spirit from the Mediterenean.
When ever you decide to visit this part of this magnificent planet, please be my guest.Thank you for all.
John - Thank you for sending this beautiful flute. I've had a lot of stress at college recently and playing the flute really helps me relax and clear my head. At first, I felt restricted by only being able to play in two keys, but I am starting to love the simplicity. As it is a courting instrument, I make sure to also have it in my backpack for when I see pretty girls. Thanks again, keep up the good work!
John,
I didn't mention that our vacation (from which, we've just returned today) was at the Grand Canyon National Park. You might understand my enthusiasm for getting the flute to play in that setting. This part worked out perfectly, I played it every day.. mostly in the quiet of our lodge. I didn't have the courage to find an abandoned canyon, even if they did exist for flute playing.
I have to admit to a certain smugness as I looked around at other flutes available.
Well, I had a great treat in Sedona at a shop called "Bead Happy" (the proprietor was a man named Kurt? - from South Africa). He had several of your flutes and said that you had come by the shop, at least once. At his shop I was able to play, side by side, a number of flute styles and makes. There is no question that I did the right thing in choosing your flute. Playability, tone (for my ear) and craftsmanship made yours exceptional. Well, as I mentioned, Cathy has envied my flute since I got it a week or so ago. She tried to play it, but as you pointed out, it's not for beginners. For me, I have very large hands and am an avid guitar player, so stretch and work on tone with the Eflat flute came easily. For her it was nearly impossible. Well, Kurt had an "A" flute of yours that we both played and loved so we had to add it to the family. He sold it as a curly maple and walnut but the picture match on the web says curly maple and lacewood. It would be good to know which is correct, but it doesn't matter.. we both love it.
We probably paid a few dollars more than if we bought from you directly, but there is something great about holding a flute and playing it and hearing it ask to be taken home! Plus I was looking for a great vacation souvenir for her.
One question; the Eflat seems to get very wet during my playing. I use the procedure that you mention to remove the bird, blow out the moisture and wipe with a soft cloth or tissue. The "A" doesn't seem to have this problem (if it can be considered a "problem"). Is it OK to remove the bird a number of times per session of playing to dry it out this way? I also store it in such a way (bird off of the sound holes) that it dries between playing. I suspect this is fine, but it might start to wear the finish. Your thoughts would be appreciated.
Thanks again from both of us.
Dear John,
Thank you for the wonderful flute! It arrived yesterday. I work out of my house so I had to stop working and play it. I have been feeling creative lately and the flute is perfect. With my previous experience playing a regular concert flute, this came quite naturally and I even wrote a short song! I am looking forward to getting involved with a flute circle. Thanks again. You do beautiful work!
Sincerely,
Hey John
20 minutes after I emailed you, the mailman showed up at the front door holding a long white box. John, you are truely a craftsman!!! The bloodwood block really compliments the walnut and the G# was an excellent choice. The flat surface is an excellent design, making the flute fit comfortably in the hands. Much nicer than the round style flutes. Thank you very much.
