Erik the Flutemaker Kung Fu Flute (D)
The Kung Fu Flute is a handmade flute, crafted by Erik the Flutemaker. It was inspired by the Japanese Shakuhachi, which is a difficult flute to play. Erik has made it side-blown so that it becomes easier to blow. The sound produced by this flute is very calming and meditative. It plays in the minor pentatonic scale.
The flute is fitted with a shoulder strap, so you can carry it behind your back.
It is played like a western flute, blown from the side and held horizontally. It requires a little practice to get comfortable playing such an instrument. This flute is tuned to D (minor pentatonic).
How to play this flute?
- Aim your airflow against the edge of the embouchure hole
- This requires some practice and patience
- The flute is held horizontally, this too requires some practice
- There's 4 fingerholes on top, and a thumbhole on the back
- Cover the holes with the pad of the fingers, not the fingertips
The musical possibilities
- Easily plays in the minor pentatonic scale
- It is possible to 'bend' notes by sliding your finger off the hole
- You can achieve a similar effect by rolling the flute
- It has a reach of two octaves.