34th Annual Student Research Conference
A Study of the Japanese Shakuhachi Flute: History, Culture, and a Beginner’s Approach to Pedagogy and Performance
Emily N. Green
Dr. Julianna Moore, Faculty Mentor
The Japanese shakuhachi is a vertical, end-blown bamboo flute that has captivated players and audiences in Japan for centuries. Because of its organic sound and reflective tone quality, the shakuhachi has a deep historical connection with Japanese culture and the Buddhist practice of meditation. The instrument’s natural timbre is now considered an integral component of Japanese music and has helped increase its visibility on the world stage. Today, many Western musicians are learning the instrument and comparing it to the Western silver flute. However, the shakuhachi has many key differences that make learning the instrument a unique challenge. This presentation will explore the history, development, and cultural impact of the shakuhachi from its arrival in Japan in the 7th century up through modern times and showcase a Western student’s approach to beginning pedagogy and performance.
Keywords: Music, Shakuhachi, Flute, Japanese, History, Performance
Topic(s):Music
Presentation Type: Asynchronous Virtual Oral Presentation
Session: 15-1
Location: https://flipgrid.com/899114aa
Time: 0:00