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June 10, 2004
Trouble getting a RO?
I just had a player over to my place who couldn't get the Ro to sound on a 2.4 Hocckiku I made for him. I assured him the problem was with his embroucher since I was able to get a Ro with no problem. When he arrived and began to play for me, I noticed that he was playing quite well until he came down to Ro.
I took the flute from him and blew. A nice fat Ro came out. Then he took the flute and tried again. Low and behold, a nice Ro emerged. Then he went up the scale and played each note again. On his way down, he couldn't get the Ro again. I was about to give him embroucher tips but I immediately saw the problem. He was not covering Tsu all the way. On these long flutes, when you have to use the meat of your index finger to cover Tsu and Ri, there is a chance that air could be leaking through one or more holes. Ro does not sound when there is leakage, whether from a crack or a finger hole. I gave him an exercise for tapping the holes to make sure each one is covered when playing. He got the RO each time!
So, if you can't get a Ro sound, first make sure there is no air leakage from any of the finger holes. This doesn't mean you should grip the flute. Always play with relaxed fingers. Train yourself to use the minimal amount of hand pressure required for full coverage. This way you won't get injured. Practice safe shakuhachi ;-)
Posted by Perry Yung at June 10, 2004 05:29 PM
Comments
I did not know the flute was so hard to play. I'm glad I have a friend who has taken the time to learn how to play the flute.
Posted by: dave at June 19, 2004 01:28 AM
Learning the shakuhachi is much like learning the violin. It can be difficult for some but easier for others. The majority would find it challenging. In the end, it is all relative. Some would say the Turkish ney is even harder.
Regardless of the difficulty in getting started, the process of learning this instrument is truely unique and ultimately rewarding in immeasurable ways. Your mental state and breathing is completely connected to making a sound. This is why so many find it relaxing. Once proper breathing methods are estabilshed, the player begins to relax when practicing. Zen Honkyoku music requires that long passages be played on a single breath. This requires the player to take deep lung fulls of air and make long controlled exhalations.
This kind of breathing clears the mind and opens the heart.
Posted by: perry yung at June 20, 2004 10:29 PM