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Learn shakuhachi online with master performer, teacher, and researcher Lindsay Dugan, specialising in KSK/Yokoyama-style honkyoku, and Kinko honkyoku and gaikyoku. Lessons focus on breath, timing, tone, musical interpretation, and the evolving aesthetics of sound and silence. Whether you are a committed beginner, an intermediate player, or an advanced student seeking refinement, lessons are tailored to your level and musical aims.

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Lindsay’s teaching gives you direct access to the core principles of traditional shakuhachi training—timing, tone, breath, phrasing, aesthetics, and cultural grounding—without needing to spend years living and studying in Japan.

 

His methods have developed over more than 20 years of immersion in the instrument, including more than 15 years in Japan, learning directly from some of the most highly regarded performers of the modern era. Through both traditional apprenticeship and academic research, Lindsay has distilled the essential elements of honkyoku practice into a clear, accessible approach that helps you understand what is usually learned only through long-term, in-person training.

 

In lessons, you will gain insight into the musical and cultural knowledge embedded in the tradition—knowledge that is often considered “felt” rather than explained—so that you can develop your playing with clarity, confidence, and depth.

 

Beginner lesson materials including scores and recordings are provided, and I have other scores and recordings available for purchase as well.

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Contact Lindsay to enquire about shakuhachi lessons.

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What you will learn

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In lessons, we work with repertoire and skills drawn from my main lineages and experience:

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• Honkyoku from the KSK/Yokoyama and Kinko traditions

• Breath, timing, and phrasing – how to shape musical time and ma

• Tone production and balance across registers

• Interpretation and variation within lineage-based practice

• Reading and understanding notation (staff notation, shakuhachi tablature)

• Embodied technique – posture, relaxed playing, efficient movement

• Solo performance skills and musical confidence

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Each student’s path is different. We’ll set goals that make sense for your level, time, and interests.

 

Lesson format

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• Online lessons via Zoom (or your preferred platform)

• Dual cameras, professional grade audio equipment, and other technologies enhance the online learning experience

• In-person lessons in Tokyo by appointment

• Workshops and guest teaching available for festivals, universities, and organisations

• Lesson length: Usually 60 minutes (other formats are possible by arrangement)

• Language: English or Japanese

• Materials: Scores and recordings can be provided as needed.

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If you don’t yet own a shakuhachi, I can offer guidance on choosing an instrument suitable for study.​

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Who these lessons are for

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These lessons may suit you if:

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• You are a beginner wanting structured, lineage-based instruction. Prior musical experience not essential!

• You are an intermediate player seeking more clarity in tone, timing, and repertoire

• You are an advanced player interested in interpretation, variation, and research-informed performance

• You are a musician or scholar exploring traditional Japanese music and honkyoku

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Getting started

 

If you are interested in lessons, please contact me and let me know:

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• Your current level or experience (if any)

• Your interests (folk music, honkyoku, gaikyoku, ensemble, research, etc.)

• Your time zone and general availability

I look forward to working with you and supporting your musical practice!

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