It starts with a poplar tree branch.
With a slight hand and a sharp blade, the bark slides right off. Using just the right pressure, and technique honed through practice, the carver makes a series of cuts into the soft wood. In a matter of seconds, he slides the bark back on.
A Grade One student eagerly reaches for the new whistle. He blows air into the tiny wooden instrument, discovering another way to make music.
This is why students come to the Nihithow Askiy Cultural Education Camp — to make new connections with nature.
Simon McKenzie holds up the poplar tree whistle his teacher
