Michael “Chikuzen” Gould, master Shakuhachi performer and teacher, Profile/Bio

Michael Chikuzen Gould studied the Shakuhachi (Zen Bamboo flute) in Japan for 15 years under renowned masters Mr. Yokoyam Katsuya and Mr. Taniguchi Yoshinobu. He earned the title of Dai-Shihan or Grand Master in 1995. He returned in 1998 to teach at wittenberg University and the University of Michigan. Gould is currently based in Cleveland Heights, Ohio where he teaches privately when he’s not touring. Gould has published several Cds and instructional books for teaching shakuhachi. On his latest Cd he is accompanied by Buddhist Shomyo chanting. He has toured extensively in the U.S. and Japan, and is currently teaming up with Chieko and Kuniyasu Iwazaki for a two week concert tour.
 

 

About Lessons: Chikuzen Studios offers individual shakuhachi lessons and occasionally sponsors workshops and retreats. For details about the types of lessons offered, see:

• Lessons via Webcam
• Private Home Studio Lessons
• Bed & Breakfast Home Intensive Study
• Camps or Retreats

Beginners as well as experienced players are welcome.
Contact Michael Chikuzen Gould to arrange a lesson or get further information.
http://www.chikuzenstudios.com/

Shakuhachi glossary 101

Here’s some basic 101 shakuhachi glossary terms. More to come!

• Atari To strike a finger hole
• Furi A rapid meri/kari head dip.
• Kan Upper register
• Kari Blow by putting the chin up, to raise the tone
• Komi Buki Big breath, the pulsing characteristic of playing.
• Meri Blow by putting the chin down, to lower the pitch.
• Muraiki Blowing so as to create a windy, roaring, effect
• Nayashi To begin pitch meri and rise to standard pitch
• Otsu Low register
  Suri Glissando
• Suri age A slide upwards
• Tsuyutoshi Cloth for wiping the bore
• Utaguchi The sharp blowing edge of the shakuhahi
• Yuri Vibrato