Gagaku Sho (Reed Pipe) - Genuine Soot-Smoked Bamboo - Three Knots - Made by Mukoda Sanrai

This is a sho (笙) used for Gagaku (雅楽) court music. It is a mitsubushi (三つ節) type made of soot-dyed bamboo, crafted by Murata Sanrai (向田三籟), the teacher of Suzuki Naoto (鈴木直人). There is a slight crack on the head, which is difficult to capture in photos. The bamboo crack has also been repaired. The total length is 423mm. According to hearsay, in the past, there was a distinction in the pipes used by old families, with the main family using honbushi (本節) and the branch family using mitsubushi (三つ節).

I have experience with over 20 sho made by Sanrai and have some knowledge about them. However, this particular sho is a rare type that differs from many of Sanrai's creations. It bears more resemblance to the work of Suzuki Naoto.

While Sanrai's bamboo often uses a slightly dark, soot-dyed bamboo, resulting in a somewhat larger, dynamic, and gorgeous appearance, this sho is smaller, slender, and delicately crafted. Nevertheless, the uneven surface from bamboo straightening characteristic of Sanrai, the shape of the fune (舟 - the base part), the four-diamond crest engraved on the back of the obi (帯 - binding), and the handwritten characters on the back of the bamboo all match Sanrai's style.

What makes it unlike Sanrai's typical work is that it uses bamboo with a color that truly looks like soot-dyed bamboo, rather than a darkened hue. The byōjō (屏上 - decorative metal fitting) is also different, being a triple layer instead of a double layer, and the overall construction of the instrument itself is distinct. It is possible that towards the end of Sanrai's life, his disciple Suzuki Naoto procured the bamboo, and this is a collaborative work between teacher and student. If it is a collaboration, it would be extremely valuable. This is, of course, purely speculative.

It is difficult to describe the sound, but the impression is of a tight, clear, and edgy tone. There is no noticeable air leakage. It will be shipped after being re-tuned.

◎ Tuned and cleaned as of early April, Reiwa 8 (2026).
Reeds and byōjō adjusted.
◎ Obi tightened.
◎ Bamboo cleaned with camellia oil.

Please understand that the above work is based on my personal sound preferences and subjective judgment.

Given that this includes my subjective opinions, please refrain from purchasing if you have any doubts. No claims or returns accepted (NC.NR). The color and texture may vary slightly from the actual product depending on your PC or smartphone display. Therefore, as this is a high-value transaction, if you are in the Tokyo metropolitan area, we would prefer you to see and play the instrument in person to ensure your satisfaction before purchasing. Please contact us if you wish to inspect the instrument and try playing it.