Small Hands and Holding Shakuhachi

1.8 key of D is the standard shakuhachi length or key. This means that most instructional materials will be aimed at 1.8 and most teachers instruct on 1.8. While those with small hands might assume that it’s better to opt for something shorter than 1.8, in actuality smaller shakuhachi are also harder to play as they take more focus from the embouchure to hit the higher notes of Kan the 2nd register. The fact is, there are very few adults who can’t manage to play a standard 1.8 when using proper form. After this guide of mine you’ll be well on your way to being one of them.

My student with small hands

Pictured below is my student who exhibits excellent technique holding a 1.8 length shakuhachi despite her very small hands. Notice that her fingers are natural and straight while holding her shakuhachi; not arched or contorted. Her wrists are neutral thanks to her arms being slightly flared out. She covers some holes, not with the tips, but further down the finger for improved ergonomics.

Also note that she has her pinky/little fingers up and free, not curled under her shakuhachi. If she were to curl her pinkies under the shakuhachi it would inhibit good meri technique, and finger movements in general. People often incorrectly place their pinky/little fingers under the shakuhachi to try and help steady or support it. With proper posture and form, such unnatural and cumbersome use of the pinky fingers is not needed.