Seven-Tone Scale Rare 7-Hole Shinobue Made by Yujiro Koike, Master Flute Maker and Head of Shinonokai

This is a listing for a seven-hole shakuhachi (Gis440Hz) crafted from carefully selected bamboo. The node and branch section, which is prone to damage, has been reinforced. We plan to list other tunings as they become available.

All of our shakuhachi are professional-grade instruments, yet they are also very easy to play for beginners and are ideal for improving your skills.

Below is an introduction to the craftsman and the flute.
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This is a posthumous work by the late Yujiro Koike, a shakuhachi craftsman who studied under Master Hyakunosuke Fukuhara and was later recognized by the Living National Treasure Saemon Hozan. It is said that his master was so impressed with Koike's work that he cherished it. Several of his unfinished works, in perfect condition, have been discovered, and the wishes of those involved are that they reach the hands of someone who can appreciate the value of his technique and sound.

Using his unique techniques, not only are diatonic scales possible with normal playing, but chromatic scales are also achievable through meri and kari techniques, allowing for sessions with Western instruments. Furthermore, the meticulously calculated balance of the holes has resulted in what can be called a work of art – a supreme creation born from unwavering dedication.

The shape of the holes significantly impacts ease of blowing, ease of fingering, and tone quality. Those familiar with his flutes would reportedly visit repeatedly while waiting for their instruments to be completed.

We will carefully select and list these flutes one by one, ensuring they are in beautiful condition with no cracks, and have been checked for sound and appearance. Therefore, due to the delicate nature of the product, we kindly ask for your understanding that returns cannot be accepted. All flutes are made from the highest quality, carefully selected bamboo.

Although some details of his techniques are unknown as the craftsman has passed away, we have carefully selected only those items marked as his own work and of the highest quality, and their sound has been confirmed.

To share his beautiful sound with as many people as possible, we have decided to list them on Mercari. We may be unfamiliar with some aspects of this platform, but we will respond with sincerity.

This is an opportunity for both those who know of his work and those who do not, to acquire a shakuhachi with a beautiful tone and appearance, and above all, one that is easy to play. While we have some stock, as these are posthumous works, quantities are limited. Please consider purchasing while they are available.

During his lifetime, a special exhibition was held at the Numazu Imperial Villa to celebrate the birth of His Imperial Highness Prince Akishino, featuring a performance of Urashima no Mai and Gagaku and The World of Yujiro Koike's Shakuhachi, where he presented his own shakuhachi performance.

It has been 13 years since his passing, and his website has been closed. If you have any questions, please leave a comment, and we will check and respond to the best of our ability.