I usually reply to technical support questions through email or phone but I recently offered an Mp3 lesson and responded by video, which we both found very useful. So, today I am replying to a question about a sharp Kan no Chi on an Earth Model flute.

It takes about as long for me to make this quick movie as it does to try to write coherently in describing the physical activities required for blowing Meri or Kari.

Meri and Kari are traditional blowing techniques used to manipulate the pitches to play shakuhachi music. We also use it to get notes into proper pitch while playing. All shakuhachi need embouchure adjustments to some degree to be able to play in very good tuning. They do not play in tune automatically like a recorder, but some better than others. Getting a handle on these two very important blowing techniques early on will enable the beginner to learn shakuhachi music quicker since the traditional music incorporates lots of “in-between” notes that Western ears are not used to.

“Writing about music is like dancing about architecture.” - Laurie Anderson

Have a great day! Perry