Akikazu showing the beginners how to make a sound.

One of the shakuhachi world’s contemporary virtuosos was in NYC last week. I was fortunate to be able to catch both his performance at MoMa and his shakuhachi masterclass at the Japan Society. I studied with Aki in Japan for six months around 2003 and then saw him again during the Big Apple Shakuhachi Festival in 2004. It was such a pleasure to see him again, and to take a class! He taught Choshi as the class was quite a mix of levels but regardless of the fact, judging from the oohs and aahs, everyone benefited simply from hearing his spectacular sound. He ended the workshop by treating us to a performance of two traditional Zen pieces - Tsuru no Sugomori and Saji.

Aki demonstrates a love for the shakuhachi in every adventurous note he embarks on. Each is a journey unto itself and when masterfully strung together transforms into a classic roller coaster ride, building slowly and gently and paying off with pulsating bang at the end. And like all my favorite rides, things may feel like they are spiraling dangerously out of control, that I may fall off at the top of the loop or on a reckless swerve, but he brings me in safely. And as he pulls the brake gently, I become aware that he was in control all along. I sigh as my life passes by. Akikazu’s technical mastery of the shakuhachi is one of awe. I for one am very grateful for his vision.

Less writing, more practice Have a great day!

Namaste, Perry