These two flutes came in for repair this week. They can not be more different as representatives of the shakuhachi. There are many types of shakuhachi flutes but these two are at the opposite end of the spectrum: one crafted fairly recently by a famous, highly respected maker from a traditional lineage and the other carved by the hands of an anonymous wandering zen monk probably over 150 years ago.

One flute works as a fine musical instrument made for a style of Kinko Ryu shakuhachi music and the other, well, a few blows into the flutes tells me that it’s definitely not made for any sort of ensemble music. The feeling it gives me is one of exploration. This flute challenges me to go beyond what I understand as music. As a matter of fact, the owner named it The Wanderer.

This is an excellent flute to just let your mind wander. Who know what you can discover when when wandering through a bamboo grove in Edo Kyoto. I am enjoying the conversation with the spirit of the old monk. How often does one get to do that? 

A deep bow to those who generously share their flutes with me.