I’ve been making these unique bronze relic Wowflutes since 2015. I launched a successful Kickstarter campaign for them. Quite the process to create music out of metal but I enjoy it!
Handmade Relic Wowflute
I made this little pocket closed vessel flute (ocarina) out of bronze for a customer. It’s got a full range based on the pentatonic scale.
Handmade Relic Wowflute detail
These little pocket instruments are quite a process to produce. I start out with atomized powdered bronze and mix it with plant fiber. I add distilled water till it’s the consistency of clay. I then shape and tune the flute. I have to tune the flute several times as it dries because the metal is rather heavy and doesn’t support it’s weight very well. Once dry I grind and repair before firing to 1000 degrees to burn out additives. After this firing the flute is very fragile. The next firing is in an oxygen free environment. This is done by using activated coconut shell carbon. The piece is covered completely to absorb all oxygen. This prevents the bronze from oxidizing at high heat levels. It’s fired to 1560 degrees and held there till the metal singers and becomes solid bronze. Once out of this firing it is then tumbled and polished. Overall it’s about a 1 week process.