Home / Events / Embrace the Magic of Music: Fab Lab Armenia’s Native American Flute Workshop
Embrace the Magic of Music: Fab Lab Armenia’s Native American Flute Workshop
On a sunny Saturday afternoon in Dilijan, the Fab Lab Armenia Education Foundation was abuzz with creative energy as it hosted a captivating Native American Flute Workshop. The event, led by renowned experts Clint Goss, PhD, and Vera Shanov, brought together a diverse group of musicians, artists, and curious minds from across Armenia and beyond.
Community building and community involvement are core brand values of Fab Lab Armenia, and this workshop embodied that ethos perfectly. Participants from all walks of life, from young children to seasoned musicians, gathered to craft their own unique flutes and immerse themselves in the enchanting world of this ancient instrument.
The detailed guidance of our experts allowed each participant to craft their own unique instrument, turning raw materials into a soulful tool of expression.
“It was amazing to see how quickly everyone grasped the techniques and started making music. There was a real sense of community and shared discovery in the room.”
Vera Shanov, experienced music facilitator
The day began with a spellbinding performance by Clint Goss, who set the tone with his soulful melodies. Participants then dove headfirst into the hands-on process, guided by Clint and Vera’s expertise. The room was alive with the sounds of drilling, assembling, and customizing as each person poured their creativity into their flute.
Indeed, the workshop offered something for everyone, catering to beginners and professional musicians. A young man from Palestine expressed his delight, saying, “I’ve never played an instrument before, but this workshop made it so accessible and fun. I can’t wait to keep practicing!”
The blend of traditional artistry and modern technology brought the Native American Flute to life, showcasing the power of hands-on learning.
“The Native American flute has a rich history; it was extraordinary to share that with this international group and to see how music can bring people together across borders.”
Clint Goss, computer scientist and musician
Alongside the locals, the event also attracted participants from diverse backgrounds, including Armenia, USA, Syria, Georgia, Bangladesh, Ukraine, and Russia. As the afternoon progressed, the space filled with a symphony of soulful melodies as everyone mastered the art of playing their handcrafted flutes. From solo performances to group improvisations, the room was alive with a joyful energy that transcended language and cultural barriers.
The shared joy of creating music from scratch transformed the room, with melodies transcending age, background, and language.
Towards the end of the workshop, Clint and Vera shared insights into the history and cultural significance of the Native American flute, drawing parallels to the power of modern digital fabrication—participants left with their unique instruments and a renewed appreciation for the magic of music-making.
“This workshop was a shining example of what Fab Lab Armenia is all about. By bringing people together to create, learn, and play, we’re nurturing artistic expression and fostering a sense of community and connection that is truly inspiring.”
Mkhitar Evoyan, Technical Support Assistant, Fab Lab Armenia Education Foundation
As the sun set over the Dilijan mountains, the participants departed with their handmade flutes, their hearts full of the music they had discovered. This day perfectly encapsulated Fab Lab Armenia’s commitment to innovation, collaboration, and the transformative power of creativity.
Babken Chugaszyan, CEO of Fab Lab Armenia, expressed deep gratitude for the “unforgettable experience” the workshop brought to the team and the Dilijan community. He described it as the “best community-building session” they had ever had.
Babken highlighted the value of the workshop’s four key components: the introductory performance, the flute building and customization, the group playing session, and the final in-depth presentation. He praised the program’s balance, making it enjoyable and meaningful for all age groups.
The CEO remarked on the workshop’s ability to transcend language and culture, connecting people of different nations and ages through the universal language of music. He said the experience left the participants with a “warm and deep feeling,” bringing them together in “perfect synchrony.”
Babken admired the seamless integration of high-end engineering, such as 3D modeling, with a deep understanding of history, tradition, and culture and a “subtle feeling for music, art, and aesthetics.” He found the approach truly inspiring.
In closing, Babken emphasized the importance and meaningfulness of the work done by the workshop leaders, not only for Armenia but for the world. He highlighted the need to unite people and foster the understanding that “we are all one,” especially in the face of global challenges and uncertainties.
Clint and Vera’s expert facilitation brought out the best in each person, creating an atmosphere of collaboration and discovery.
“It was our pleasure to visit Fab Lab Armenia and share a bit of what we love with your already outstanding program. We were amazed at how rapidly your staff absorbed the complex flute construction process and converted it into a smooth workflow for the group of 50 participants. Our immediate impression and belief is that your program holds amazing value for the Dilijan community, and we’re confident it will thrive and grow in the years to come.”
Clint Goss and Vera Shanov reflect on the success of the workshop and the potential of Fab Lab Armenia’s programs to inspire and unite the community.
