Jemez Pueblo Artist, Educator, and Flute Maker
Marlon Magdalena is an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Jemez (Walatowa)and is a distinguished figure in the preservation of Indigenous musical traditions, Marlon has dedicated nearly two decades to the artistry of the Native American flute as a master craftsman, educator, and performer. His life and art are deeply anchored by his heritage, family and his long-standing role at the Jemez Historic Site, where he has educated the public on the profound cultural and historical significance of Indigenous communities.
The Craftsmanship
Art has always been a large part of Marlon’s life. While his background includes drawing and painting, his primary medium is the resonant voice of the wood. As a craftsman, Marlon specializes in hand-carved flutes that bridge the gap between ancestral tradition and modern performance. Utilizing materials such as Yucca stalk, Pine, and Poplar, each instrument is meticulously shaped and precision-tuned for concert-grade resonance and spiritual clarity. He creates several types of flutes found across North America, from traditional single-chambered block flutes to ancestral rim-blown replicas. His process is a testament to cultural stewardship, ensuring that every flute honors the aesthetics of the Jemez landscape and is created in accordance with the Indian Arts and Crafts Act.
Cultural Education & Stewardship
Marlon’s contributions to the New Mexico arts community extend far beyond his workshop. Serving as the Instructional Coordinator at the Jemez Historic Site, he bridges the gap between ancestral tradition and public education. Through numerous presentations, workshops, and performances throughout the Southwest, he educates the public on the profound cultural and historical significance of Indigenous instrumentation, fostering a deeper understanding of Native music for both Native and non-Native audiences.
Performance & Mission
To truly understand an instrument, one must hear it speak. Flute and song-making are the core of Marlon's artistic practice, and he shares this art vividly through his live performances. Weaving haunting melodies with the stories behind their creation, his ultimate mission remains centered on "giving the Flute Spirit a voice," ensuring that the breath of the ancestors continues to resonate in the modern world.