Atsuya Okuda is the only master and formal teacher of the jinashi-nobekan shakuhachi in Japan. Okuda is involved in numerous activities, with the ultimate goal of spreading the history, culture and art of playing the classical shakuhachi. Okuda calls his business activities Zensabo (literally "Zen Tea Room".) In addition to teaching private lessons, Okuda offers three weekly gatherings where anyone is welcome to experience Okuda's shakuhachi performance, and expand one's knowledge of the classical shakuhachi.

ZENSABO CIRCLE

A group of students and followers has gathered around Okuda. Including Okuda Sensei, this group is called Zensabo Shirabekai, or Zensabo Circle, and it's members share a common interest in classical shakuhachi and the art of playing. While Zensabo is centered around Okuda and the Tokyo area, the Zensabo Circle has members from a wide area of Japan, and a few members from around the planet. The Zensabo Circle arranges serveral events throughout the year.

BAMBOO HARVESTING

Okuda places importance not only on playing the shakuhachi, but also on making one's own, individual shakuhachi. Every year in late autumn, the Zensabo Circle arranges a trip to harvest bamboo. Nearest to Tokyo, the best bamboo for shakuhahci is found in Nagano or Gunman Prefecture. It is a precious time to appreciate the fresh air and beauty of Japan's mountainous countryside. During the fieldtrip, members are trained how to select, harvest, and dry bamboo for their own shakuhachi. After the bamboo has dried for several months, it can be transformed into a shakuhachi. The Zensabo Circle also organized a day for making shakuahchi every spring and fall.

ZEN NO OTO KENKYUKAI

Other activities include the Zen no Oto Kenkyukai (Sound of Zen Study Circle), which is held every equinox. Here, students of the shakuhachi perform for each other and share their interests in a social setting. The year's practice culminates at a yearly concert. To spread the understanding of the classical shakuhachi ot the general public, as well as for practice playing in front of an audience, the Zensabo Circle participates in the kokubunji Citizen Culture Festival every year.

Okuda has release his first volume of classical honkyoku called "Sound of Zen", which was performed live. Please inquire for availablity.

To arrange for private lessons with Okuda, or to reserve a space for Bamboo Harvesting, or to book a time to listen to Okuda's playing during the week (Mon., Wed. Fri.) please call 0423-21-1148.