Background Music Sample: Ray of Light; Roots of Time CD; original by Hawk Hurst.
HAWK’S HISTORY
Click on the photo above for a larger version which you can print.
HAWK HURST
Storytelling History
Hawk’s love and passion for storytelling began in his early childhood as he sat spellbound listening to his Grandpa Hurst’s exciting tales of 'dust-bowl' era, Oklahoma, always accompanied by a little harmonica playing. During his graduate studies with the Audubon Expedition Institute, a traveling, two-year Masters degree program in Environmental Education, he learned the inherent educational value of storytelling. In 1991, he joined the Boone, North Carolina based, Yarnspinners organization, where he began perfecting his storytelling repertoire while performing at numerous schools, libraries, and festivals.
"As president of several storytelling and community organizations, I have worked with Hawk on numerous occasions. He presents an accomplished, polished performance, incorporating music in with his stories, and always leaving the audience wanting more!" - Dianne Hackworth, Professional Storyteller.
Hawk’s storytelling influences include: Author, N. Scott Momaday; Audubon Guide, Frank Trocco; Navajo Chanter, Alfred W. Yazzie; Outdoor Educator, Snowbear Taylor; Jungian Analyst, Robert Johnson; Primitive Technologist, Steve Watts; Makah Storytellers Isabelle Ides and Greg Colfax; Storyteller, Dianne Hackworth; Ceremonialist, Herbert Dancing Horse Walters; Environmental and Cultural Educator, Eustace Conway; Cherokee Elder, Walker Calhoun.
The Value of Storytelling: Hawk Interview
'Conversations' with Joan Mack: Aired 5/17/07 on WSCI Public Radio 89.3 FM.
Drum Making History
A longtime interest in drumming, singing, and drum making began in college, at the University of Oklahoma, where he received his first instruction from two members of the Streetpeople Reggae band - Rastafarian, Jahruba Lambeth, and Jordan Bennison, of Togo, Africa. His West African drumming skills were greatly enhanced under the tutelage of (the late) Master Drummer, Babatunde Olatunji, of the Yoruba tribe of Nigeria. He continued to learn new songs and rhythms from his good friend and mentor, Snowbear Taylor. He first studied Native American-style drum making with Northwest Coast drum-maker, Jim Hickey. In 2005, while teaching at the Green River Preserve, near Tuxedo, North Carolina, he was honored to have the opportunity to work with campers and staff to carve three, 30” diameter drum frames from a fallen, hollow, hemlock tree. He gratefully acknowledges that he has received much guidance over the years, from Master Craftsman, Darry Wood.
“Our drums are Perfect! Thank you for making Debi's birthday so special - she "loves" her drum and the experience. Your encouragement and faith in our abilities will last a lifetime.” - Henry, drum making participant
“I have been wanting to tell you how much I have been enjoying the rivercane flute and the drum I bought from you. Thanks for all the work and spirit that went into the making. I receive blessings every time I play.” - Donna, a satisfied customer
“I haven't quit talking about my drum making experience. I am quite proud of how it looks. You were sooooo patient with me while making it. Thanks ever so much for your part in my music adventure.” - Judith, drum making participant
African Drumming: Hawk Interview
'Conversations' with Joan Mack: Aired 5/17/07 on WSCI Public Radio 89.3 FM.
Flute Making History
A Passion for Native American flutes: Hawk has been making, playing, and teaching others to create Native American-style flutes from rivercane and bamboo for nearly two decades. Originally self-taught, he considers himself very fortunate to have studied with some of the finest flute makers and players across the country. His playing was greatly influenced by the recordings of Carlos Nakai, and the playing of Snowbear Taylor, Frank Chambless, and the late, Bob Two Hawks and Hawk Littlejohn. He perfected his flute making abilities with assistance from Cherokee flute makers, Eddie Bushyhead and Orea Van Doren.
He had the distinct pleasure to co- create two musical CD’s and tour the country of South Africa with the band, Sapien, performing at various festivals, clubs, and universities. Sapien’s first CD, ‘Gathering’, was a 2000, first-round Grammy nomination. He is a long-time member of the South Carolina Flute Circle.
Hawk’s Cultural Arts Education Philosophy
“I strive to impart a sense of wonder and mystery into a sometimes all “too ordinary” and mundane world. The stories and songs I choose to share are interwoven with many lessons about community and our place within it – all of which can teach children, not only moral lessons couched in story form, but also provide information about the intriguing diversity of cultures and creatures found in our world. Through pure joy and entertainment, stories and songs can teach environmental respect, personal responsibility, and tolerance for cultural differences and for each other.”
Bookings & Orders
Hawk Hurst
16 Halsey Street
Charleston, SC 29401
843-577-2821 E-MAIL
