In this course, you will learn to play Shakuhachi. We will start with an introduction to the flute and explain how the instrument is put together and played. You will learn first to get a sound out of the flute and then how to place the fingers on the flute.

Once a sound is created, we will learn the name of the notes and how to write them as well as read them.

We will then learn to play each of the five basic notes with the fingering and then create melodies with just a few notes.

Once you can play the 5 notes, we will move to the higher register. Higher register notes are harder to play. Make sure you don't overblow and just tighten the embouchure only not the whole jaw and mouth. Put pressure on the lips as if you are trying not to let any air come out until a tiny opening opens up. It will take some time, so don't rush through the course, go slowly and go back a step back if need be until you get the notes. It won't be perfect of course, but you should be able to slowly have your embouchure stronger and the muscles will get more attuned and able to give you the opening you want.

Feel free to email me if you are having a hard time at one point and need extra help or pointers.

You will learn to do some simple exercises and play melodies.

After playing melodies on both register and the five basic notes, we will learn how to bend a note and lower it by a half step. This will be followed by some exercises. Once this is mastered, we will go deeper and learn different techniques such as vibrato and lowering notes by a full tone.

We will put stress on playing each note clearly and strongly and listen to your own playing more carefully. You will learn some techniques on how to better your sound and get rid of common bad habits. You will learn to play in tune and be able to play melodies of different styles with more confidence.

Introduction to Honkyoku (meditation music) and the basics of it. This will give you a better understanding of a new concept that we will introduce which is " Ma" or space. Ma is used especially in Honkoyku playing.

Ma is basically a space between two notes. It is not rhythmical but it is something that you feel within a musical phrase, it can be slightly longer or shorter depending on the melody

We will focus on writing and reading Japanese Shakuhachi notation in comparison with Western notation.

We will progressively learn to play more complicated songs. This will lead you to the different courses we have for you.

We are in the process of creating more lessons for beginners and intermediate and advanced

We have some flutes available for purchase should you be in need of one go to our page at Taikoza (dot com)to purchase a flute, there will be a photo of them with a price list