I traveled from northern Utah to Scottsdale, Arizona, in August of 2009 to receive one-to-one NA flute instruction from
John Vames. My goal was to acquire the fundamental tools necessary to improve my NA flute playing ability over the
long term. Those fundamental tools included: an understanding of the relationship between rhythm and melody; how
to read and interpret music; and, NA flute playing techniques. John provided me with
3 thought provoking lessons of instruction over a period of 3 days that allowed me to accomplish these goals.
John is a one-of-a-kind NA flute instructor. No other NA flute instructor has all four of the following qualities: a lifelong
dedication to teaching music that spans several decades; extensive professional performing experience that includes
the NA flute and other musical instruments; a specialty in playing and teaching the NA flute; and, author of 2 how-to-
play NA flute books. I found each of his 3 lessons to be well-planned, organized, and designed to meet the goals of
the individual student.
The Franciscan Renewal Center in Scottsdale, Arizona, provides the room and board for John’s students. I found
the staff at the FRC knowledgeable, courteous and service oriented. The room accommodations and cafeteria food
were excellent. Additionally, the FRC provided a private instruction room that I was allowed to use from 10:00 a.m.
until 11:00 p.m.
For all of these reasons, I highly recommend John Vames' one-to-one NA flute instruction for anyone who would like
to move their NA flute playing ability to the next level and beyond.
Stephen C. Weiss
Librarian Emeritus
Utah State University
Logan, Utah
John Vames Flute Student Reviews
My experience learning the flute with John was well worth the time and effort at multiple levels.
First, John is a patient and skilled teacher. He quickly assessed my skill level and customized the
lessons accordingly. Second, he is one super musician with lots of practical experience. Let me
hasten to add however, that he did not waste my time showing me how well he could play. As
appropriate he demonstrated various elements of the technique, but his focus was on helping me
come along in my playing, not demonstrating his virtuosity. Finally, I enjoyed simply working with
John as a person. He has a pleasant and appropriate sense of humor, he shows interest the person
he is teaching, and he interacts with sensitivity quickly adjusting to the individual’s personal goals.
Summing up: John is the number one primo native American flute jazz maestro. John’s approach is
like unto none other. I would give John as well as his two music books 5 stars.My experience
learning the flute with John was well worth the time and effort at multiple levels. First, John is a
patient and skilled teacher. He quickly assessed my skill level and customized the lessons
accordingly. Second, he is one super musician with lots of practical experience. Let me hasten to
add however, that he did not waste my time showing me how well he could play. As appropriate he
demonstrated various elements of the technique, but his focus was on helping me come along in my
playing, not demonstrating his virtuosity. Finally, I enjoyed simply working with John as a person. He
has a pleasant and appropriate sense of humor, he shows interest the person he is teaching, and he
interacts with sensitivity quickly adjusting to the individual’s personal goals. Summing up: John is the
number one primo native American flute jazz maestro. John’s approach is like unto none other. I
would give John as well as his two music books 5 stars.
Ray Brow