My Story

Hi, I'm Ami Sarasvati, CMP, author, teacher, therapeutic musician, ceremonial musician, and retreat leader dedicated to helping others discover their own musical voice through the Native American style flute. Working with students since 2012 and has witnessed firsthand the transformative power of music in classrooms, retreats, hospice settings, and community gatherings. As a Certified Music Practitioner (CMP), Ami combines practical musicianship with compassionate teaching, creating resources that are approachable for beginners while offering meaningful depth for experienced players. Her books have become trusted companions for students seeking not only technical skill, but also a deeper connection to music, creativity, and service. My musical career started at 6 years old with piano lessons. They have served me well as a foundation for becoming a musical educator. But even though I had musical training, I was glued to the piece of paper on the stand. I yearned for a greater sense of freedom in my musical life. Many years later, a friend introduced me to the Native American style flute. I loved the sound of it and decided to learn to play it. In 2016, I became a Certified Music Practitioner (CMP)® through the Music For Healing and Transition Program. I began working at Concord Hospital in Concord, NH as well as about a dozen senior living communities. I have played bedside for the ill and dying in many clinical settings and have witnessed again and again, the healing power of music. Now, I offer this specialized service in the Tucson, AZ area. Another extensive training put the play factor back in my musical life - the Music for People’s Musicianship and Leadership Program (musicforpeople.org). Thanks for being here. What interests me is what you are looking for. Tell me, dear visitor, what brings you here?

Ceremonial Playing

I am an active teacher, author, ceremonial musician, and therapeutic musician. I Iive just south of Tucson AZ with my husband. We are artists and nature lovers. How is ceremonial music different from a musical performance? In a musical performance, the focus is on the musician(s). In a ceremony, the focus is on the ceremony. The musician(s) must be sensitive to the purpose of the event, and to play in such a way as to complement it. Careful uses of silence, choice of melodic themes, appropriate volume, and other factors are all important. Ami creates a unique and enchanting soundscape that fits the moment and enhances the spirit of the ceremony. Ceremonies I play for: Labyrinth Walks Retreats of many styles (art, spiritual, human development, etc.) Art Gallery Shows

  • Author of Learn To Play The Native American Style Flute: Discover Your Heartsong, Discover the Musical Modes on the Native American Style Flute, Learn to Play for Ceremonies on the Native American Style Flute: Create Your Musical Ministry, and Musician’s Heart Journey

  • Lessonface Teacher of the Year of the Native American Style Flute in 2020 – 2025

  • Through Music For Healing and Transition Program: Certified Music Practitioner and Faculty Teacher (Module 3)

  • Graduate of Music for People’s Musicianship and Leadership Program

  • Certified Labyrinth Facilitator through Veriditas

  • Accredited T’ai Chi Chih® Instructor

  • Reiki Master Teacher

  • Ceremonial Musician and Retreat Leader

T'ai Chi Chih Instructor

Ami is an accredited T'ai Chi Chih instructor. You can see her page on the official site; https://taichichih.org/teacher/ami-sarasvati/