Shinobue (篠笛）
Natural, Simple, Profound
Shinobue Means “Bamboo Flute” in Japanese.
Shinobue is a traditional Japanese instrument. Side-blown bamboo flutes were used in court music as early as the 8th century in Japan, and one may suspect that their existence began even earlier amongst ordinary people.
5 reasons why you should start playing shinobue.
Affordable - Many beginners (even in Japan) start with a plastic shinobue to try the instrument.
Relatively easy to learn - One can start playing simple Japanese folk songs in a few days.
Versatile - Shinobue sounds lovely in many different styles of music, from anime theme songs to traditional Japanese music.
Portable - Shinobue can be put in a cloth case and tossed into a backpack. No cable or stand is needed.
Improves physical, cognitive, mental and spiritual health - Many reports that the calming sound of shinobue and diaphragmatic breathing brings the feeling of relaxation and peace when they play shinobue.
Ready to start your shinobue journey? Visit my store.
Here is an example of a Shinobue (Doremi Cho - 6 hon choshi) played with the piano.
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“Shinobue reminds me of the wind, and to know the sound is being made with something as simple as bamboo is amazing. It sounds so natural and peaceful, as if nature itself is making the music”
Many people are purchasing shinobues because they were introduced to this gorgeous instrument by Nintendo video game “Xenoblade 3”. Here is the main theme “A Life Sent On” cover.
Looking for shinobue sheet music? No problem! Check out the free shinobue sheet music I have created!
Shinobue comes in 12 different keys (hon choshi).
Which hon choshi should you buy?? Here is a video for you.
It is confusing to find the right shinobue for you to buy, so I have created a shinobue buying guide. I hope you will find this guide helpful.
Many people purchases shinobue flute wanting to cover music from anime and Japanese video games. Here is an example of shinobue flute (8 hon choshi) playing Naruto theme song.
You got your first shinobue! Congratulations!! Now what?? Here is how you can make sounds with your first shinobue!
Looking for a shinobue fingering chart? Here is an excellent fingering chart created by Suzuki, whose shinobues are considered the best plastic shinobues by many.
Photo by Richard Walter