My Journey with the Shinobue and Traditional Japanese Music

Welcome to My Shinobue Melody Journey
Hi there, I’m a Japanese traditional instruments player, Chizu.

And welcome to my page! I’m thrilled you found your way here, whether you stumbled upon it or actively searched for something unique. Either way, I’m happy to introduce myself and my journey with Japanese traditional music, particularly focusing on an instrument that has become very special to me—the Shinobue.

My Musical Beginnings in Japan

I’m originally from Japan and now living in British Columbia, Canada. My musical journey began long before I picked up the Shinobue.

After graduating from university with a focus on the flute, I spent over ten years studying the Shamisen, a traditional Japanese stringed instrument. The change in educational law required music teachers to include traditional Japanese music in their curriculum, which is how I became involved with the Shamisen.

In the beginning, I focused on folk songs from various regions in Japan. As someone with a background in classical music, learning the Shamisen came naturally to me on a technical level. However, something still felt missing.

Folk song, Tsugaru and…

While folk songs are undeniably beautiful and culturally rich, they didn’t resonate with me personally.

The other hand, I found myself more drawn to modern Shamisen music, particularly Tsugaru Shamisen, a style known for its powerful sound and intricate finger work. I spent hours listening to artists like the Yoshida Brothers, Hiromitsu Agatsuma, and Masahiro Nitta.

Their music struck a deep chord within me, and I soon realized that Tsugaru Shamisen was where my passion truly lay.

A few years later, I approached my Shamisen teacher with a request: “I want to learn Tsugaru Shamisen.” Luckily, my teacher had expertise in this style as well, and this marked a significant turning point in my musical career. As I delved deeper into Tsugaru Shamisen, my teacher handed me a new challenge—a Shinobue, a bamboo flute.

　

A Turning Point: Discovering the Shinobue

For most people, playing the Shinobue can be challenging, but I was already a trained flutist, so picking up the instrument felt quite natural.

However, my initial impression of the Shinobue wasn’t particularly exciting. Because it lacked the grandeur of the Western flute, and I wasn’t sure how it would fit into my musical journey at that time.

A New Chapter in Canada

Fast forward in Canada

Fast forward over ten years, and I found myself moving to Canada. While there were a few flutists around, I quickly realized that there were no Shamisen or Shinobue players in my town. And then, I joined a Japanese Taiko drumming group within the Japanese-Canadian community here.

Bridging My Past Experiences

I consider myself fortunate to have this opportunity. I had also worked as a public school music teacher, where I introduced students to traditional Japanese music. Little did I know that all those years of experience would come together to support my life and career in a new country.

Expanding My Musical Horizons

Now, I not only play the Shinobue and Shamisen, but I also compose pieces that blend other traditional Japanese instruments with Taiko. What once seemed like a daunting task—composing—now feels natural, with melodies springing to mind one after another. I still feel like I’m evolving as a musician.

Introducing the Horagai: A Sacred Sound

Additionally, I’ve introduced a new instrument to our performances.

The Horagai, a conch shell trumpet used in Buddhist rituals and as a signaling device by mountain ascetics.

My hometown is near Mount Ishizuchi, a sacred mountain, so the sound of the Horagai has been familiar to me since childhood, as I would hear it every year on the TV news.

The Horagai adds a powerful, mystical element to Taiko performances, enhancing the experience for both the performers and the audience.

The Unique Voice of the Shinobue

An amazing instrument- Shinobue.

Its voice is delicate and idyllic, capable of evoking a wide range of emotions. Whether playing alongside Taiko drummers or serving as the central melody in a piece, the Shinobue’s sound creates a sense of nostalgia for listeners.

Still popular sound in Japan

In Japan, the Shinobue is often used in matsuri (festival) music and Kabuki theater, where its bright, clear tone cuts through the powerful sounds of drums and other instruments. In a North American setting, where these cultural traditions might be less familiar, I’ve found that the Shinobue brings a unique and unexpected flavor to performances.

I aim to be someone who brings a piece of Japan’s rich musical heritage to new audiences through this amazing instrument.

【Instrument used】
Kinputyo Sinobue :琴風調篠笛

Soon, I will be sharing a 16-bar Shinobue melody with you. I’m looking forward to seeing what you think!