Mujitsu and Tairaku's Shakuhachi BBQ

Chris Moran wrote:

What are the qualities which you look for or expect from a flute?

?

I think this is a very good question because the answer will be different for different people and a lot of times it will just depend upon their physical makeup. That's why the whole concept of defining "good flute" is problematic. There are different "good flute" styles.

1.physically on the chin, lips and mouth

I like one with a large opening. This gives more leeway to create meri notes, produce vibrato, etc.

2. in the hands

Again large. And I like large holes because it gives me (with my large fingers) more control over meri notes. I also like 1.8 but the length that is most comfortable for me is 2.0 or 2.1 through to 2.7.

3. sonically

Most difficult to say. Generally deep sounding flutes that emphasize the lower harmonics. But I also love flutes that create a buzzing sound for each note. My favorites have both of these factors.

4. technically

Once the mouthpiece and the holes are comfortable technique takes care of itself (as much as we can control the flute).

5. aesthetically

Nobe is preferable to 2 piece. No utaguchi inlay or if there is one, Myoan ivory. I prefer thick heavy bamboo. Dark bamboo. Mottled, goma or patterned bamboo is nice. Wide profile. Dense wood. Curve is nice. Some of my favorites have 6 nodes, if not I don't like to go beyond 7 nodes. I like thick root ends but they can either have nodes intact or filed.

Shakuhachi are such beautiful things that I like some that are exceptions to this but these are the general trends. However I realize that someone else might like the exact opposite!

1.physically on the chin, lips and mouth

Thick chinrest. 2.5 to 2.9 diameter opening on long shakuhachi depending on bore width and playability. Approximately 45 degree utaguchi angle.

2. in the hands

Largest holes possible and severely undercut on wide bore, long shakuhachi. Angled, oval holes. Offset only when physically necessary. 2.7 is most comfortable length. Medium size holes on most thinner bore shakuhachi. 11mm (average) holes on sweeter toned, thinner bore flutes.

3. sonically

Glowing, complex tone on big shakuhachi. Deep, rich depth and ephemeral decay. Good balance of reverb in the bore along with projection.

4. technically

Varies but usually like notes and sounds that glide together well in transition.

5. aesthetically     ?????

Varies. Seven node nobe if possible but also enjoy unusual aesthetic exceptions and surprises. Enjoy shakuhachi which are efficiently and functionally built with a sensitivity to the strengths, weaknesses and peculiarities of the individual piece.

Cris Moran wrote:

What are the qualities which you look for or expect from a flute?

Good set of questions Chris!

1.physically on the chin, lips and mouth

Something smooth with no sharp edges except for the utaguchi.

2. in the hands

1.6 - 1.8 Jiari around 3.4 - 3.5 diameter and under 400 grams. Longer Jinashi can be much fatter. Weight doesn't matter. Sometimes I like a super light weight Choukan.

3. sonically

Jiari should project with a clear fundamental tone and crisp, harmonic overtones when pressed. I like Jinashi with a hollow, "bambooey" tone and with a buzzy growl.

4. technically

Jiari should be in tune around at A = 438 - 443 hz. Should feel balanced from note to note - similar depth, room, volume, tone color. Notes should transition freely from one to the next even when moving between large intervals, and with minimal squeaks when using ornamentations (unless desired). Jinashi should be in tune with  itself at least. Be able to play Go no Hi, Ou san and all the Ha notes...with out too much struggle:) That's ideal but don't rule a Jinashi flute out if it's technically challenged but sounds fantastic playing Kyorei.

5. aesthetically     ?????

I like flutes that look beat up, ahem, I mean well-aged.

Last edited by Yungflutes (2009-04-19 21:43:33)