01 Oct Kakizakai Kaoru: My Sensei
Kakizakai Kaoru is one of the most respected figures in the world of Shakuhachi, an instrument with deep roots in Japanese tradition and culture. As my Sensei, Kakizakai has been an invaluable source of knowledge and guidance throughout my journey as both a player and a maker of this remarkable instrument. His mastery of the Shakuhachi is not just about technical skill but also the deep philosophy that underpins every breath and note.
Kakizakai’s Background and Shakuhachi Expertise
Kakizakai Kaoru was born into a family with a rich appreciation for traditional Japanese arts. From a young age, he showed a keen interest in music, eventually being drawn to the Shakuhachi for its unique sound and meditative qualities. His training under the renowned master Yokoyama Katsuya helped shape his playing style, which is characterized by a balance of precision and emotional depth. Kakizakai’s expertise spans a wide range of traditional and contemporary Shakuhachi music, and he has performed internationally, bringing the instrument to audiences worldwide.
As a performer, Kakizakai has an extraordinary ability to convey both the complexity of traditional honkyoku (solo Shakuhachi pieces) and the instrument’s versatility in more modern compositions. He is a master of the classical repertoire, and his performances often leave listeners with a profound sense of calm and reflection.
Contributions to Shakuhachi Music and Culture
Beyond his playing, Kakizakai has been a pivotal figure in preserving and promoting the art of Shakuhachi. His work as a teacher has been incredibly influential. In Japan and internationally, he has trained countless students, instilling in them the values of dedication, discipline, and respect that are central to Shakuhachi’s practice. Kakizakai’s contribution to the global Shakuhachi community is immeasurable, as he continually finds ways to blend traditional techniques with modern interpretations, keeping the art form alive and relevant.
Techniques and Philosophies Emphasized by Kakizakai
Kakizakai’s teaching is grounded in the philosophy that playing the Shakuhachi is not just a physical but also a spiritual practice. His lessons often focus on the importance of breath control (kokyū), the foundation of producing a clear and resonant sound. He emphasizes ma, the concept of space and silence within music, as equally important as the notes themselves. For Kakizakai, the Shakuhachi is an instrument of meditation, a tool for achieving inner harmony through the disciplined practice of sound.
One technique Kakizakai teaches in great detail is meri-kari, which involves subtle adjustments of the angle between the instrument and the player’s mouth to create variations in pitch. This technique requires a deep connection between the body and the instrument, and mastering it is crucial for playing the full range of traditional honkyoku pieces.
Lessons Learned from Kakizakai
As his student, I have learned that mastery of the Shakuhachi is a lifelong pursuit. Kakizakai instills in his students the idea that each note, no matter how simple, should be played with complete focus and intention. His approach to teaching is patient yet firm, encouraging students to persevere through the inevitable difficulties of learning such a demanding instrument. He often reminds us that true progress comes not from pursuing perfection but from an understanding of one’s own limitations and the continual effort to push beyond them.
Reflections on the Teacher-Student Relationship in Japanese Culture
In Japanese culture, the teacher (Sensei) and student (deshi) relationship is one of deep respect and mutual commitment. Kakizakai embodies this traditional relationship through his tireless dedication to his students. He teaches through words and by example, demonstrating the values of humility, patience, and hard work. The bond between teacher and student in the Shakuhachi tradition is often lifelong, with the Sensei guiding the student through both musical and personal development.
For me, learning from Kakizakai has been a transformative experience, shaping not only my approach to the Shakuhachi but also my understanding of this instrument’s broader cultural and spiritual significance. Through his teachings, I have come to appreciate the profound depth of the Shakuhachi tradition and my responsibility as both a student and a maker to uphold and pass on this beautiful art form.
Kakizakai Kaoru continues to inspire and guide countless students, ensuring that the legacy of the Shakuhachi endures for generations to come. If you are interested in becoming a part of the legacy of this great Sensei, sign up for a Shakuhachi lesson today!
