A few months ago, my friend and renowned shakuhachi craftsman, Jem Klein, presented me with an unexpected request: “Will you write a book on how to play the shakuhachi?” His vision was to include a guide with every beautiful flute he sells.
My immediate answer was no. I was convinced that the soul of the shakuhachi is taught through sound and presence — that live lessons and video were infinitely more effective mediums. But Jem, and others, gently challenged my perspective. They reminded me of the ‘text learners’ among us, those who find clarity and connection through the written word. They pointed out that a book isn’t a replacement for live instruction, but a vital companion to it; a reference to hold, to return to, to supplement.
Humbled and encouraged, I embarked on the daunting task of creating my first book. Inside, you won’t just find the core mechanics of playing; you’ll find answers to the most common questions that arise in my lessons — from choosing and caring for a flute to mastering the traditional Japanese Katakana notation. I’ve included high-resolution photographs of my own embouchure and posture, alongside simple exercises and a collection of 28 folk songs to begin your musical path.
Authoring this book was a profound learning experience, complete with its own set of challenges. My deepest thanks go to my friends for pushing me to create this. I truly hope it becomes a welcome and useful companion on your own shakuhachi path, J
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