FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
I generally charge $50/hr the traditional rate. There are exceptions and discounts based on limited income. My lessons often go beyond the stated time range.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
We begin with proper breathing, correct posture and right attitude. While learning to get a sound, relaxation is important and not putting too much pressure on oneself. I don't read the music so the instruction that I offer is in learning to listen, imitate and go beyond to create one's own unique sound.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have been playing the shakuhachi for over 35 years. While I have studied briefly with accomplished shakuhachi players I am mostly self-taught. What turned out to be a great plus to playing shakuhachi as a meditation tool was learning to meditate when I was about 20, thirty years before taking up the Zen flute. My initial meditation practice was sitting Zen or zazen meditation so there was a natural progression to take up this instrument.