Mujitsu and Tairaku's Shakuhachi BBQ

Hello people,

I'm looking for a reference book that gives one a good basis for understanding about the history of and the different styles of playing the Shakuhachi, from a beginner's or outsider's level.  This is all new to me, and I want a broad general knowledge, to begin to understand the differences and find the style I will relate to the most.

I know there are several books out there, from looking on Monty's website. "The Annals of the International Shakuhachi Society Vol. 1" looks good, and so does "The Single Tone".  Are there others that go into depth about the different styles?  Do any reference recordings, or include reference CDs?

Of course, once I find what style I like, I will need a book about learning that style, even if I find a teacher down the road sometime.  I do tend to learn mostly by ear though, so if you have any suggestions about that I would welcome them.

Thank you for your help!

Edited to add:

I just put  "The Single Tone: A Personal Journey into Shakuhachi Music" by Christopher Yohmei Blasdel on my Amazon wish list.  It seems like what I am looking for in the history and outsiders understanding of the Shakuhachi world.

I don't know if it covers the different styles-that is something I very much want to explore too.  Any suggestions?

Last edited by bluespiderweb (2005-11-06 14:34:07)