How to Hold Long Shakuhachi

For many players, shakuhachi measuring 2.0 shaku (60 cm) or longer can feel substantial. When embracing these larger instruments, understanding how to hold them securely and comfortably is paramount. In the accompanying photos (below the video), you’ll see me demonstrating with a 2.6 shakuhachi, roughly 78 cm long. This is a medium-large instrument for me, at 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm) with large hands. To determine what constitutes a “large” shakuhachi for your unique build, I recommend consulting my guide: here.

As you observe the photos, notice the placement of my fingers:

• My right hand utilizes the basal portion of my index finger.
• My top hand’s index finger uses its mid-portion.

This specific grip allows for a remarkably comfortable ‘bagpiper’s grip’ (or ‘piper’s grip’). Crucially, my ring fingers engage only with their tips, and all my fingers remain ‘natural’ or relaxed – flat, not arched in any way.

This method offers an ideal foundation for comfortably holding and playing shakuhachi that feel large to you. A note of caution: I’ve observed that stringed instrument players sometimes instinctively curl their fingers, pressing tips into the holes as if depressing strings. For shakuhachi, this is an improper technique and should be avoided.

For those with relatively smaller hands, a more in-depth look at safely holding shakuhachi can be found here.

Embracing a larger shakuhachi opens up new possibilities in sound and expression, often leading to deeper, more resonant tones. With the right approach to holding and posture, you can unlock the full potential of these magnificent instruments and allow your sound to flow effortlessly.