TOWNSEND, TN, May 24, 2014 /24-7PressRelease/ -- It is said that music touches the heart, and if this is so, then Native American flute music surely touches the soul. The sweet, flowing sound can be soothing, peaceful, upbeat or even playful. Most are made from wood or cane; this unique instrument can greatly range in width and length depending on the desired effect. Native flute players are especially devoted to the art, heritage and education of not only the music but the instrument itself.

The Renaissance of the North American Flute Federation (RNAFF) is dedicated to educating both players and listeners in the flute's cultural roots and practical applications. To further that goal, RNAFF will be hosting its second annual Gathering beginning June fifth and ending June eighth at the Smoky Mountain Heritage Center in Townsend, Tennessee.

The Gathering will feature flute music played by more than 30 of the top flute performers including Grammy winner R. Carlos, Nakai, Gareth Laffely, Randy McGinnis and Rona Yellow Robe. Hawaiian musician, Walt Keale and Robert Thorne, from New Zealand, will also be performing. Music will begin in the early afternoon and continue into the evenings' concerts. For a complete list of performers, go to http://www.rnaff.org/performers.html

In addition, more than 25 workshops will be offered by experts in their fields. Ranging from flute playing lessons for the beginner to advanced, to flute making and even business management, the workshops will be offered over the four day period and may require an additional fee or donation.

Vendors will be offering handmade and custom flutes as well as CD and accessories. Other merchandise includes handmade jewelry, original art, herbs and photography to name just a few of the unique items that will be available.

Cost for the event is $65 for all four days and evening concerts, $20 for one all-day pass, or $15 for the evening concert only with discounts for RNAFF and Great Smoky Mountain Heritage Center members. Tickets can be bought at the door or through the RNAFF website: http://www.rnaff.org/tickets-and-venue-information.html

More information about performances, vendors and workshops can be found at http://www.rnaff.org/rnaff-gathering-20141.html

RNAFF's intent is always be to respect and hold in high regard the experiential traditions that are and will continue to become the on-going history of North America's indigenous flute. RNAFF continually acknowledges in all aspects regarding the Native American flute, its craftsmanship, performance and derivations that serve to reinforce the importance of the musical instrument in the cultural realm both past and present.