On the 26th May 2024, I passed the menkyo kaiden ceremony at Myōan-ji Temple in Kyoto, Japan. Together with 4 other players, we each played a piece of the San-kyorei pieces (Kyorei, Mukaiji and Kokū) to the alter of the temple with a statue of Kyochiku Zenji. I had chosen Mukaiji.

Many friends and family came to support and it was a very special day. Of course, I was not nervous like the 4 others. I have played shakuhachi for 35 years. But it was still special to step into the collective archetype of a shakuhachi player at a Zen Buddhist temple. I am honoured to be part of it, and I am happy the interest for Myōan shakuhachi playing is on its rise.

I can now take on students, who also want to become a member of the Myōan Kyōkai (association) and work through the repertoire till kaiden. It will take at least 5 years to reach kaiden. The Myōan repertoire has been renewed around the change of the 19th century to the 20th century. It is koten honkyoku. And it can be an acquired taste for some. Once you get used to the sound and the intervals, it can be very special. I am loving it.

Of course I can also teach some pieces of the Fuke Myōan repertoire without the student having to go all the way and become a member of Myōan Kyōkai.