Bamboo flute that is created and used in the Tsugaru region of Aomori prefecture.
There are several types of Tsugaru bue. The most commonly used are Tozan bue, Gezan bue, and Neputa (Nebuta) bue.
My training with Bunta Satoh sensei is almost exclusively done with Tozan bue and Gezan bue. They are excellent flutes for studying fundamental techniques that transfer to shinobue playing.
Tsugaru bue are Hayashi-style flutes that are tuned to the scales used in the traditional music of the Tsugaru region. They do not produce the scales we are used to hearing.
They are much more affordable compared to Do re mi cho shinobues.
They have no coating (bare bamboo) - easier to crack than coated flutes.
Tozan bue - 6 sun 3 bu (approximately 24 inches) Easier to play than 7 sun, but does not sound as deep.
There are 2 types of Tozan bue: 6 sun 3 bu and 7 sun
“Sun” and “bu” indicate the flute size using an old Japanese measuring system.
Both Tozan buses are excellent flutes for teaching you breath control and how to create a resonant (deep) tone. It will give your shinobue tone more depth, even when you are playing a small shinobue like 8 hon choshi!
Tozan bue - 7 sun (approximately 25 inches) has a very rich and deep sound. Tuned lower than the 6 sun 3 bu.
Gezan bue (approximately 19 inches) Excellent flute for learning proper embouchure and breath efficiency.
Taiwan, South Korea, China = $48
The rest of Asia = $45
Canada, Australia and Europe = $54
United States of America = $53
Africa and Central America = $59
Bunta Satoh sensei in Carnegie Hall, NY City
