Blowing Zen

Book excerpt: Note: The Blowing Zen Companion CD is available through Kunaki and Amazon http://bit.ly/abbottkunaki http://www.amazon.com/Blowing-Zen-Companion-Carl-Abbott/dp/B00BW6S9N6 The Shakuhachi is an ancient flute that captivates many who cross its path. Hidden in its simplicity is profound possibility. The windy, resonant sound of the Shakuhachi brings deep serenity to sympathetic ears. For the devoted player, it is also a spiritual tool for training the mind and breath. Most notably, Zen monks have using the Shakuhachi for centuries to train mind and breath through the practice of Sui Zen (blowing Zen) using Buddhist music composed specifically for the Shakuhachi. "Blowing Zen" guides you step-by-step from producing sound to playing Buddhist Meditation music. Also included are detailed build-your-own shakuhachi instructions. The Blowing Zen Companion CD (sold separately) contains the Japanese folk tunes, chamber music and Buddhist composition "Hi Fu Mi" taught in the book. It also includes examples of timing and standard Buddhist music phrases.