Bamboo Selection A traditional shakuhachi is made from the root section of Japanese medake (phyllostachys bambusoides) bamboo. The best flutes are effortless and appear as a result of a good relationship between the maker and the bamboo. Shakuhachi making is difficult when we try to force a predetermined voice into the bamboo. It is important to listen for it, recognize it, then help it along in the direction of its own sound. Work against it and it always wins.Work with it and it just might reveal something. I continue to learn the same lesson from bamboo. At the heart of this experience is bamboo. Here is a list of the basics: Hack Saw Japanese bamboo saw (optional) Exacto Blades Flat file- medium (at least 1” diameter) Round file- coarse (1/4 to 1/2 inch diameter) Drill (power or hand) 3/8” Forstner drill bit Long 3/8 inch wood drill bit Sandpaper- (coarse to fine) Measuring Tape (metric) Wood dowels (1/4-1/2 inch diameter) Steel wool (extra fine) Electronic tuner Bamboo! Shakuhachi making is a humbling experience. Often, simple tools found at any hardware store are sufficient. However, a quality shakuhachi is mainly a product of patience, attention and subtle adjustments. Shakuhachi Construction Tools and Materials List There are many specialized tools available for shakuhachi construction. Ken LaCosse, of San Francisco, makes Mujitsu Shakuhachi for students, teachers and professional musicians throughout the world. One explanation is that an ancient six hole version migrated from China to Japan along with the introduction of Buddhism during the Nara period (680794 A.D.). History There are various possibilities as to the origin of the shakuhachi. Many experienced makers find endless complexity and challenge within this approach. Although basic, it is not necessarilly a crude method. Extra tedious steps, or within this mindset, ‘trappings’ of construction, such as the blowing edge inlay, lacquer application and middle joint construction, are not addressed. This method is ideal for beginners because it is concerned with the shakuhachi in its unadorned form. In this approach, the emphasis is on the bamboo and working with what each particular piece has to offer. This flutemaking guide attempts to explain a basic approach to shakuhachi construction. They are also said to have originated the use of the dense root section in their flutes as a means of self defense. The popular legend of the komuso is that they were granted exclusive rights to play the shakuhachi if they acted as secret informers for the government. The movement gradually developed into a recognized sect of Zen Buddhism. Others were drawn by its developing Zen theology and its utilization of music as a means to enlightenment. Some were attracted by the free and easy role of the traveling komuso monk. Komuso membership greatly increased during the political upheavals of this time. In the 17th century, the shakuhachi was played by wandering priests called komuso (priests of empty nothing) who wore large baskets over their heads to symbolize their otherworldliness. Regardless of approach, shakuhachi making can be used as a tool to practice the appreciation and wonder of paradox in all things.Īncestor of the shakuhachi called a hitoyogiri was first played by Japanese begger monks about the 9th-11th century. In it’s most complex form, it can take months or years of diligent labor before a flute is considered finished. In it’s most basic form, the shakuhachi can be made in minutes. The deceptive simplicity of the shakuhachi can also be found in the experience of constructing one. In its religious context, it is played not for entertainment, but as a way of Blowing Zen. Historically, the shakuhachi has a connection to Zen Buddhism. By adjusting the blowing angle or by partially covering the finger holes, its basic pentatonic scale can be expanded to include slides, halftones, quarter tones as well as subtle microtones. Its efficient design provides a player with a level of subtle tone control found in no other flute. With only five finger holes and a sharp, angled blowing edge, it is capable of producing both sounds of simplicity and vast complexity. Ken LaCosse The shakuhachi is a deceptively simple Japanese bamboo flute.
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