Winter is here. So far, 2011 is proving to be one of the worst in many parts of the country with record blizzards. Please take care of your flutes by carefully storing them in airtight containers and far from indoor heating sources if possible.

This one closed nicely with topical nylon cord bindings.

Unfortunately, the bore took quite a hit. Actually, I had to repair a few flutes like this recently. Once the plaster gives, it needs to be removed and new plaster applied. This kind of work is quite extensive and requires more time to complete. Traditional Ji plaster needs to be cured before re-shaping.  Then the music is played to fine-tune. The process is a juggling of science, traditional crafting and musicianship. This one will probably be in the shop for 1-2 months.

Lastly, people have been asking, why do I not have many flutes listed for sale. Well, things have been insanely busy in the repairs department and my commissions. So these days, I can only make flutes on commission. All you have to do is send an email request form through my website here: http://yungflutes.com/contact

It takes about 10 days for an entry level Meditation Flute, about 20 days for an Earth Model shakuhachi, about one month for a root end and 3 months for a Chikusing Model Honkyoku shakuhachi. (Add an additional 10-14 days for lacquering and inlays). My professional level 1.8 length instruments presently have a one year wait. Please feel free to inquire. I will try my best to get back to you within 24 hours. 48 at the latest.

Sometimes flutes can be suddenly available but they go quickly due to daily inquiries. For example, two flutes became available last week and one sold before I could update my Shop page. The darker Goma bamboo flute (bamboo cured in the ground) above is a 2.0. It is a Hocchiku all natural flute. It is available now for $200. It is made from lightweight (almost like Balsa wood) bamboo harvest in Maryland. It is fully functional playing into the third octave Ha notes and well in tune for Honkyoku.It has a standard width bore and is relatively easy to play. If you want a shakuhachi, the best thing to do is ask what may be available soon if I don’t have anything ready to ship.

On different note, Jet had his first singing concert. The entire Kindergarten class of the school had a hootenanny sing-out with the accompanists being the parents of the kids. Among them Broadway and professional classical musicians. I wanted to bring a shakuhachi but couldn’t get it together. Among all the songs, With a little Help from My Friends seemed to be the hit with the kids. I love this school!

Stay warm and wrap your flutes
Namaste ,Perry