CAMP VERDE, Ariz. - On Saturday, Dec. 28, Don Decker from the Yavapai-Apache Nation will be at Montezuma Castle National Monument, showing how the Dilzhe’e or Western Apache people made traditional reed flutes. From 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m., while the materials last, Mr. Decker will show visitors how to make and play their own reed flutes.
Traditional flute music has a long history in the Southwest. Flutes have been discovered at archaeological sites in the Four Corners region and were used by many American Indian cultures from historic times until the present. Today, flute music has become emblematic of the Native American Southwest.
Mr. Decker is the former Apache Culture Manager for the Yavapai-Apache Nation and continues to do consulting work for the Cultural Resources Department today. There is no additional charge for the special program. The fee for Montezuma Castle National Monument is $5 per adult 16 years of age or older.
There is no charge for children 15 and younger. All Federal recreation passes are accepted including Senior, Access, Annual, and Military passes.
Montezuma Castle, open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., is located off Interstate 17, exit 289, 2800 N. Montezuma Castle Highway. The trail is a one-third mile, paved, flat loop that is ADA accessible. For additional information, call 928-567-3322, extension zero.
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Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
