lutes can be made from a wide variety of materials. For a long time, the preferred material in Europe was wood, but ivory, porcelain and even glass flutes appeared, especially during the baroque period. The modern flute tends to be made of silver, gold, platinum or plastic. Bamboo plays an important role in Oriental cultures. In addition to wooden flutes, bone, ceramic and copper flutes are found in various parts of the world.

Flute By Tony Bloom Canmore, Alberta Circa 1985 Porcelain 32.5 cm Inscribed with the artist's signature and seal Gift of the Massey Foundation

Earth is a symbol of fertility, wealth and generosity. In many cultures, ceramic instruments express the desire to unite earth and music in order to supplicate the benevolent spirits and elicit their favour.

Opus 59 - Flute

Flute By Tony Bloom Canmore, Alberta 1977 Stoneware 37.8 Inscribed with the artist's signature and seal Gift of the Massey Foundation

The ceramic flutes and drums presented here are often associated with various musical traditions. The breath that produces sound in the wind instrument is a symbol of life, while the beating of the drum symbolizes the human heart. The union of these two instruments has given rise to a French proverb:  "What comes from the flute goes back to the drum."

     

Tony Bloom

Instrument making comes naturally to ceramist and musician Tony Bloom. Spurred by a desire to build a flute for his musician brother, he began experimenting with pottery and instrument making in Canmore. A few months after taking courses at the Banff School of Fine Arts, he became a professional artist and potter. Also a drummer, he has fashioned several darabukkas. Tony Bloom has produced bas-reliefs and sculptures in addition to musical instruments.