This flute is made to the same specifications as the Shishida and Maruyama shinobue flutes. Most beginners can play the lower notes, but many struggle to play the higher notes or the even higher "pii" sound. Many people are also unsure if the flute they are currently using is actually producing the correct sounds. This flute is made based on the opinions of instructors from various regions (easy to produce the "ko" notes, the "dai-kan" notes come out clearly, and it's affordable). It seems that beginners are advised to first learn to produce the "ko" and "dai-kan" notes before buying an expensive flute, and then go to a shop to try out different flutes to find one that suits them. (Even if a flute looks good, it may not produce the "dai-kan" notes.) Also, it seems that progress is faster if you start taking lessons after you can play some notes. To prioritize ease of playing, sound, resonance, and affordability, there may be scratches, natural shapes, natural patterns, and natural bends. A 10mm ball is placed in the image. Please use it as a reference for the size of the holes, etc. Thickness: Approximately 19.2 mm at the mouthpiece Length: Approximately 48 cm Mouthpiece size: Approximately 14 mm Thin body (Thicker flutes have good low-frequency resonance, while thinner flutes produce better "dai-kan" notes.) Wall thickness: 2 out of 5 (Thicker walls produce better "dai-kan" notes and resonance, while thinner walls are easier to play.) Pitch: Around 5 hon (a unit of measurement for flute pitch) Range: The sound cleanly extends from the "tsutsune" (ro-on) to the "dai-kan" 5. Because it is thin, the "dai-kan" notes are easily produced. About Yaki-take (Burnt Bamboo): This is the best material for shinobue flutes. When the bamboo is thoroughly burned, it becomes hard and the sound becomes better. However, there are few materials that meet the conditions, and it is difficult to process. It is also characterized by even better sound when made naturally. Bamboo grows by competing for light. Therefore, the bamboo that wins the competition for light is the most suitable for flutes. (I have been researching physics utilizing the laws of nature for many years, so I can identify bamboo that meets the right conditions.) About Suke-nuri (Transparent Lacquer) Finish: Because no pigments are used in the lacquer, it is easier to produce sound. Also, by carving grooves inside and allowing the lacquer to soak in, it becomes even easier to produce sound and the resonance improves. Please be aware: The "ko" and "dai-kan" notes are very easy to produce. When playing strongly, please make sure there are no people around. Please be especially careful around small children, the elderly, people with disabilities, and those who are not feeling well. Regarding discounts: Because this is handmade, discounts are not possible.