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September 28, 2004
Difference in root and non root shakuhachi.
Here's reply to a question about the difference between root and non root shakuhachi. The name has been changed to protect the innocent ;)
Hi "W", Thanks for your email.
> I understand, I would rather have one that is
> playable, I will just save
> my money for a few months and then order the root
> end for the listed
> price.
Yes, it's better to order direct. Although I take extreme pride in every flute I make, there's no denying that a little more care goes into a flute when there is a name attached to it from the beginning.
Thank you for the explanation on the
> differences (hocchiku vs shakuhachi), I wouldn't
> want to rely on my luck. :-) how long does it take
> to make one when
> ordered?
Making my Yung Model modern shakuhachi can take from 6 - 8 months. These are extrememly time consuming because of the fine tuning required for the shakuhachi sound according to todays' standards. The bore is manipulated into a predestined size regardless of natural bore size.
My Chikusing Model Zen style is less time consuming but still is difficult. It can take 1 -3 months depending upon the piece of bamboo since this method relies on the natural bore shape. This is what I would do for you. Just tune the resonance spots. This type of flute retains the individual bamboo's tonal characteristics. I prefer these for Zen Honkyoku because of the bamboo vibrations.
In a nutshell, a good root end will be louder and have more tonal flexibility but, it really comes down to two things regardless of type - is it a good shakuhachi or a not so good one?.
A good shakuhachi will have a nice relationship of sound flexibility and volume from note to note and across both octaves. It should also play relatively well in tune.
A not so good one will not play at an acceptable tuning and the notes will not have balance - one note louder than the next, the second octave louder or softer etc...
I use "not so good" as opposed to "bad" because making a good shakuhachi is difficult. Even a "not so good" flute can be good if the player knows how to make adjustments in the playing technique, which many master say they do to some degree with every flute.
A master player will be able to play any kind of shakuhachi and make it sound incredible. A master player has a personal sound that is heard regardless of the kind of flute being played.
Some people will argue what a shakuhachi is depending upon the visual aesthetics. I'm more of the old school. I believe in the sound. There was a Komuso Monk who was the head of a Zen sect who sometimes made simple shakuhachi from bamboo laundry poles. His name is Watazumi and he created a school of playing based on his sound. Strangly enough, follows of his style now play modern flutes.
Like learning to play any music instrument, the shakuhachi is no different. A beginner will struggle to make a sound on any flute regardess of quality. It would take a few years of playing before the player will be able to produce the shakuhachi's unique sound. But ,once you get it a glimpse into the sound, your life will be changed.
Thanks "W". Have a great day!
Posted by Perry Yung at September 28, 2004 09:12 AM
Comments
I am a new beginner to Shakuhachi. I am still trying to make a sound out of my borrowed instrument. I have read all the available information on many website on helping. Yet, still not much help for me.
I am still interested deeply in Shakuhachi to buy one. My problem is that I still cannot tell the differences between non root and root end. Please help. Thank you very much.
TC
Posted by: TC at September 24, 2006 03:50 PM