The Bell Shakuhachi

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History of the Bell Shakuhachi

It all began with me copying bamboo Jinashi shakuhachi back in 2007. Back then, I copied the bore of a Jinashi shakuhachi and cast it into another piece of bamboo, becoming the first person in the world to ever do so. From then to now, I utilize silicone molding which delivers fingerprint level detail that neither 3D printing nor CNC machining even come close to. After much hard work, in 2012 I finalized my first full copy, inside and out, of a Jinashi shakuhachi.

Bell Shakuhachi go live!

In 2013 I released the first Bell Shakuhachi for sale. I didn’t know how they’d be received at all by the community. Suffice to say, I awoke the next day to many orders and emails! However, it was short lived because I quickly realized I needed to refine my process for production. Additionally, I wished to develop an eco-composite of bamboo fiber and resin to replace the jet black resin I was using.

Horiuchi Myoan shakuhachi master plays first Bell Shakuhachi
Horiuchi Sensei, Myoan shakuhachi master plays first Bell Shakuhachi, 2013
The Bell Shakuhachi
The Bell Shakuhachi, 2020

After an incredible amount of work, I released the new Bell Shakuhachi in 2018 which far exceeded the popularity of the first. It sold hundreds of copies worldwide until 2022 when I had to retire production because it was too draining on me, even with a hired helper. As of 2024, however, I’m designing new Bell Shakuhachi. Now, I’ll be using an approach to molding and eco-composites which will allow me to craft Bell Shakuhachi without over taxing myself. So get ready!

Testimonials for the Bell Shakuhachi c. 2018-2022

Riley Lee, Dai-Shihan ‘Grandmaster’

ESS Shakuhachi Newsletter

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The Bell Shakuhachi on the cover of the ESS Newsletter, ’19

Ken LaCosse – Mujitsu Taimu Shakuhachi

The Bell Shakuhachi next to a Mujitsu Shakuhachi by Ken LaCosse.
The Bell Shakuhachi next to a Mujitsu Shakuhachi by Ken LaCosse.

‘We all know what’s good about bamboo. Show people what’s good about other materials. Go Jon go!’ – Ken LaCosse

Brian Tairaku Ritchie

Left to right: Okubo Kodo, Bell Shakuhachi, Yamaguchi Shiro
Left to right: Okubo Kodo, Bell Shakuhachi, Yamaguchi Shiro

‘The Bell Shakuhachi can be used for lessons, teaching, or performing up to the professional level. Super quality for the value. Well thought out design. Kudos to Jon for taking the initiative to produce a good instrument for the people.’ – Brian Tairaku Ritchie

The Bell Shakuhachi in the Sahara Desert – photo by Robin Tamura ig @shakuhachijourney
The Bell Shakuhachi in the Sahara Desert – photo by Robin Tamura ig @shakuhachijourney
The Bell Shakuhachi at the Grand Canyon – photo by Bogfrej Art ig @bogfrej.art
The Bell Shakuhachi at the Grand Canyon – photo by Bogfrej Art ig @bogfrej.art