I was playing one of my Chikusing 1.8s on a subway platform as I was on my way downtown to an Asclepius rehearsal. The subway is one of my favorite acoustic spaces in the City so I thought I would take advantage by sneaking in some great practice time while waiting for the train.

The tunnel reverberation is wonderful, not to mention the jam sessions with the electric crackling of the trains delay announcements, very Cagian.

Most people have difficulty getting a sound at first, especially without a little direction, but the other night as I was playing a young man approached and asked, “Is that a shakuhachi?”  I turned to greet a smiling, eager face and replied “yes” and handed him the flute. He put it to his lips and blew twice. By the third blow, a sound came! Within seconds (it seemed), he was playing up the bottom scale!  So I took out my phone to document this rare occurance. The shakuhachi is known to be notoriously difficult for beginners but I have met a few individuals who are naturals. This young man, Ivan, happens to be one. He took a pause and said that he played the recorder (the only way that could have helped with the shakuhachi is through diaphragm control). Then he when on to play in the second octave!

So, for you beginners who are struggling with your flute, do not despair. It is difficult for most people. The shakuhachi is like the violin, it takes a long time to sound just OK.  Just enjoy the deep breathing.
Namaste, Perry