Yokobue (Japanese flute) Shinobue (bamboo flute) sound production practice tool. (Ages 6 and up) For right-handed players. This is for the Koten-cho (classical style) Shinobue flutes, such as the Shishida and Maruyama models. Recommended for complete beginners, those who want to improve quickly, those who want to produce beautiful sounds, and those who want to be able to play for extended periods. Also recommended for health (for all ages and genders). Across the country, traditional Japanese music performances like *ohayashi* and *kagura* are rapidly disappearing. The cause is the declining population in rural areas. Also, the art of playing the yokobue is disappearing due to a lack of players. This tool was created with the desire to prevent this decline and to revive the lost *ohayashi* and *kagura* traditions. Originally, this was a children's toy from the Edo period. It's a tool that allows you to learn and improve your yokobue playing without even realizing it. The most challenging part of playing the yokobue and shinobue is producing the initial sound. Many people seem to give up at this stage. Thickness: Approximately 21.5 mm around the mouthpiece. Mouthpiece size: Approximately 15 mm. Pitch: Approximately G# (high note). As shown in the image, the mouthpiece is located just below the node. Sound production is difficult unless the mouth shape, angle, and distance are correct. How to use: 1. First, practice producing a low sound by placing your lips on the mouthpiece about halfway. It's easier to produce a sound if you check the position of your lips in a mirror at first. 2. Once you can produce a low sound, practice producing a high sound by closing the front of your lips vertically. Avoid blowing too hard. (Don't blow "hoo-hoo" too much). If you can't close your lips vertically, practice by putting a straw in your mouth and crushing it vertically. 3. Once you've mastered this, practice repeatedly producing low and high notes in order with a single breath. Produce the sound by closing and loosening your lips without using tongue (no "ta" or "tu" sound). You should be able to play simple songs by now. Also, you will improve considerably by thoroughly practicing with this tool. That's it! If you are thinking of starting to play the Shinobue, practicing with this tool to some extent before you begin will help you improve much faster. Also, it will be easier. Because natural materials are used and it is handmade, there may be natural shapes, patterns, colors, and scratches. Thank you for your understanding. Shipping is planned via Yu-Yu Mercari Bin, so shipping is closed on Sundays and holidays. Please refrain from price reductions as this is handmade. Thank you for reading to the end.