Had a great weekend. Saturday in particular turned out to be a quite a full shakuhachi day. Started out the morning by warming up for the Symphony Space gig at 8am. The show was conveniently located near our residence on the Upper West Side. It was bitterly cold as soon as I stepped out the door at 9am. My only consolation was the thought that it’s always nice when you can walk to work The forecast had reported the approach of the first winter snow storm. My flute was on my body underneath my coat.

I was right on time for my sound check. I prefer using Sure SM 57s mics for shakuhachi but I had to share with a vocalist who uses it before and after me so this SM 58 was a better choice. It actually worked very well for the situation.

The kids had a great time playing while waiting for the doors to open.

This shot was taken on my cell phone moments before I went on stage. It occurred to me that I should turn it on vibrate only should I get a call while on stage. It’s a happened before. Playing shakuhachi in a band situation is so exciting - totally different from solo zen playing, which is exciting it it’s own unique way of course. Each situation requires different playing and listening skills, and flutes to match.  The space had great natural acoustics. Had this been one of my lec/dem for traditional shakuhachi music, I would’ve played naked…umm…I mean without amplification:) It’s best to hear traditional shakuhachi, especially solo Honkyoku in a room unamplified.

It was a long day and by 11pm, I was leaving Sake Bar Decibel in the East Village. I had met up with some shakuhachi friends for some great conversation, not just about shakuhachi   The storm had indeed arrived and the warm sake took the edge off what could have been an arduous journey home.

Now I can get to shipping some shakuhachi across the globe. This will be the last of the Xmas shipping. After today, I will be out of town until Jan 3rd. Have a great Holiday season all!  Please remember to keep your flutes humidified and protected from the dry winter heating.

Namaste, Perry