Shakuhachi

Abstract

To provide a metal Shakuhachi that is difficult to roll when placed on a flat surface.SOLUTION: A metal Shakuhachi is made of metal and is formed by connecting a plurality of pipes 1 to 6 having a substantially cylindrical shape. A mouthpiece portion 11 is provided on the upper end side, a pipe tail portion 61 is provided on the lower end side, and a first hole 71, a second hole 72, a third hole 73, and a fourth hole 74 are formed in this order from the lower end side along the length direction. An outer diameter of the pipe tail portion 61 is formed larger than the outer diameter of the middle portion of the length direction of the Shakuhachi. Chamfered portions 81, 82 extending upward from the lower end of the pipe tail portion 61 are formed on the side surface of the pipe tail portion 61.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a shakuhachi made of metal. [Background technology]

[0002] The shakuhachi is one of Japan's most representative wind instruments, a vertical flute that produces sound by blowing air into the mouthpiece at the top. Shakuhachi are primarily made from the base of madake bamboo. The biggest drawback of shakuhachi made from madake bamboo is the risk of it cracking. The risk of a bamboo shakuhachi cracking can be reduced to some extent by the skill of the wind maker. However, the risk of cracking can never be reduced to zero. While preferences vary, there are also differences in the hardness of the bamboo itself, and there is a trade-off: the harder and more attractive the bamboo, the higher the risk of cracking.

[0003] This means that the more the shakuhachi spreads abroad as an international instrument, the greater the risk of it breaking in countries with arid climates, which are different from Japan's humid climate. No matter how much you love your shakuhachi, if it breaks, you have to send it back to the maker, have it rewound and sent back to the instrument, and it's a sad and unnecessary process for both the user and the maker.

[0004] As a means to solve this problem, an aluminum shakuhachi has been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1). It is said that if the shakuhachi is made of aluminum, it will be easy to manufacture shakuhachi of the same size with consistent finger hole positions, i.e., shakuhachi with the same tone. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 1-101587 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006]

[0007] The present invention provides It is easy to support the weight of the shakuhachi, reducing the burden on the performer and creating an environment where the performer can concentrate more easily on their performance. The purpose of this invention is to provide a metal shakuhachi. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] Incidentally, bamboo shakuhachi made from the base of madake bamboo have a large, curved base (butt end) that makes them less likely to roll when placed on a flat surface. However, the shakuhachi disclosed in Patent Document 1 has a circular cross section and is formed in a straight line, including the butt end, which means that it tends to roll when placed on a flat surface such as a desk top. Reference example This metallic shakuhachi is formed by connecting a number of metallic, roughly cylindrical pipes, with a mouthpiece at the top end and a butt end at the bottom end, with the first, second, third and fourth holes formed in order from the bottom along the length of the front, and a fifth hole formed on the back, and the outer diameter of the butt end is larger than that of the middle part of the shakuhachi in the length direction, and a chamfered portion is formed on the side of the butt end that extends upward from the bottom end of the butt end.

[0009] The above reference example The metal shakuhachi has a butt end with a larger diameter than the midpoint of the length, making it possible to create a metal shakuhachi with a butt end that resembles the butt end of a bamboo shakuhachi. Furthermore, because a chamfer is formed on the side of the butt end, placing the shakuhachi on a flat surface with the chamfer facing downwards prevents the shakuhachi from rolling. This prevents the shakuhachi from rolling off a desk top, for example, and being damaged.

[0010] In the above-mentioned metal shakuhachi, the side on which the first to fourth holes are formed may be defined as the front, and a straight line passing through the pipe axis of the pipe and the centers of the first to fourth holes as the front-to-back axis when viewed from the bottom, and the first chamfered portion constituting the chamfered portion may be formed on at least one of the left and right side surfaces of the butt portion.

[0011] According to this aspect, when the shakuhachi is placed on a flat surface with the first chamfered portion facing downwards, the first to fourth holes can be prevented from being hidden by facing the flat surface, and the shakuhachi can be placed in an attractive manner while preventing it from rolling.

[0012] Furthermore, the edge of the first chamfered portion exposed at the lower end surface of the pipe butt may be inclined with respect to the front-rear axis so that the edge is further away from the front-rear axis as it approaches the front side.

[0013] According to this aspect, when the shakuhachi is placed on a flat surface with the first chamfered portion facing downward, the first through fourth holes face diagonally upward, similar to the posture of a bamboo shakuhachi with the butt end curved forward, resulting in a good appearance. Also, the first chamfered portion is positioned so that the edge exposed on the lower end surface of the butt end is farther away from the front-to-rear axis as it approaches the front. In other words, it is formed on one of the left and right sides of the butt end closer to the back. This makes the first chamfered portion less visible when viewed from the front, improving the appearance when played.

[0014] Furthermore, in the above-mentioned metal shakuhachi, the side on which the first to fourth holes are formed may be defined as the front surface, and the line passing through the pipe axis of the pipe and the centers of the first to fourth holes may be defined as the front-to-back axis when viewed from the bottom, and the second chamfered portion constituting the chamfered portion may be formed on the back surface side of the butt end.

[0015] According to this aspect, the second chamfered portion formed on the back side of the butt is difficult to see when the shakuhachi is viewed from the front, improving the appearance when played. Also, when the shakuhachi is placed on a flat surface with the second chamfered portion facing downwards, the first through fourth holes face upwards, allowing the shakuhachi to be placed in a good-looking position while preventing it from rolling.

[0016] Furthermore, the edge of the second chamfered portion exposed on the lower end surface of the pipe butt may be provided on the back surface opposite to the front surface, perpendicular to the front-to-rear axis.

[0017] According to this aspect, when the shakuhachi is placed on a flat surface with the second chamfered portion facing downwards, it can maintain a good-looking posture with the first to fourth holes facing straight up, which is difficult to achieve with a bamboo shakuhachi.

[0018] In addition, the above-mentioned metal shakuhachi and the metal shakuhachi of the present inventionIn the above, at least one of the plurality of pipes may be formed so that the outer diameter of the upper end and the lower end is larger than the outer diameter of a portion midway in the length direction, and the outer circumferential surface is recessed in a drum shape.

[0019] According to this configuration, the upper and lower ends of the pipe can be made thick to ensure the strength of the connection, while the weight of the pipe and therefore the weight of the shakuhachi can be reduced, thereby reducing fatigue for the player.

[0020] The metallic shakuhachi of the present invention is formed by connecting a plurality of metallic, approximately cylindrical pipes, with a mouthpiece provided at the upper end and a butt end provided at the lower end, and with a first hole, a second hole, a third hole, and a fourth hole formed in order from the lower end along the length of the front surface, and a fifth hole formed on the back surface, On the outer peripheral surface between the first hole and the second hole, the outer diameter of the portion where the first hole is formed, and A clamping portion having a diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the forming portion of the second hole is formed. do. Furthermore, the outer peripheral surface extending from the portion where the second hole is formed to the clamping portion is formed in a tapered shape that narrows linearly downward. do.

[0021] The present invention's metal shakuhachi According to the article, by making the diameter of the clamping portion, which the performer holds between the thumb and middle finger of the right hand (or left hand), smaller than the outer diameter of the portion where the second hole is formed, the performer can easily hold the shakuhachi. In particular, if the outer surface from the portion where the second hole is formed to the clamping portion is tapered, narrowing linearly downward, it becomes easier for the thumb and middle finger of the right hand (or left hand) to support the weight of the shakuhachi (downward load) upward, reducing the burden on the performer. Furthermore, because the outer surface from the portion where the second hole is formed to the clamping portion has a linear tapered shape that narrows downward, the angle that the outer surface forms with the pipe axis is uniform from the upper portion to the lower portion of the outer surface. As a result, when the performer holds the outer surface between the thumb and middle finger of the right hand (or left hand), the angle at which the thumb and middle finger contact the outer surface can be the same regardless of where the performer holds the outer surface from the upper portion to the lower portion. For example, even if a performer shifts the part of the shakuhachi they are holding upward from the clamping part while playing, or shifts it back to the clamping part, the angle at which the thumb and middle finger contact the outer periphery remains the same, so the performer can hold and support the shakuhachi with roughly the same force. This reduces the impact of the shakuhachi on the performer when they slide their grip, creating an environment that makes it easier for the performer to concentrate on their performance.

[0022] In addition, in the above-mentioned metal shakuhachi, the distance between the chamfered portion of the butt end and the pipe axis may be the same or approximately the same as the outer radius of the connecting portion between the pipes.

[0023] According to this embodiment, when a shakuhachi is placed on a flat surface with the chamfered portion facing downward and an external downward load is applied (for example, by stepping on the shakuhachi), the bending load applied to the pipe connection can be reduced, preventing damage to the shakuhachi and changes in tone.

[0024] In the above-mentioned metallic shakuhachi, the inner peripheral surface of the upper end of the shakuhachi near the opening may be formed in a non-circular shape.

[0025] According to this aspect, the inner circumferential surface shape near the upper end opening is formed non-circular, which allows the breath-hold (ease of air entering the tube hole) to be changed compared to when the inner circumferential surface shape is circular, thereby allowing the tone to be adjusted.

[0026] Furthermore, the dimension of the opening on the upper end side in the front-to-rear direction passing through the pipe axis and the mouthpiece may be larger than the dimension in the left-to-right direction perpendicular to the front-to-rear direction.

[0027] According to this aspect, by making the inner diameter dimension in the front-to-back direction larger than the inner diameter dimension in the left-to-right direction at the upper end of the tube hole near the opening, the airtightness is improved and the ease of blowing (the ease of producing sound and adjusting the sound) is improved.

[0028] In addition, the inner circumferential surface of the upper end near the opening may be provided with a first thin-walled section on the rear side facing the mouthpiece, where the pipe wall is thinner than other parts, so that the shape of the inner circumferential surface is non-circular.

[0029] According to this aspect, the opening shape at the upper end and the inner peripheral surface shape of the portion near the opening at the upper end can be formed, for example, into a generally egg shape with a slightly pointed rear side, and the inner diameter dimension in the front-to-rear direction can be made larger than the inner diameter dimension in the left-to-right direction. The first thin-walled portion can be formed accurately and with high precision, for example, by additionally performing cutting work to form the first thin-walled portion on a circular inner peripheral surface shape.

[0030] In the above-mentioned metal shakuhachi, the mouthpiece is provided with a mouthpiece notch formed by cutting out a portion of the inner circumferential surface at the upper end of the mouthpiece, and the distance between the pipe axis and the mouthpiece notch in plan view may be greater than the distance between the pipe axis and the centre of the mouthpiece.

[0031] According to this aspect, by providing a mouthpiece notch in the mouthpiece portion, the breath is received better and the instrument is easier to play.

[0032] A pair of left and right notches may be formed symmetrically on both left and right edges of the mouthpiece.

[0033] According to this embodiment, a pair of left and right mouthpiece notches are formed symmetrically on both the left and right edges of the mouthpiece, so that the breath is blown into the bore 10 of the first pipe 1 in a balanced manner, resulting in a stable tone.

[0034] In the above-mentioned metallic shakuhachi, at least a portion of the inner circumferential surface between the mouthpiece and the fourth hole in the longitudinal direction may be formed in a non-circular shape.

[0035] According to this aspect, at least a portion of the inner circumferential surface between the mouthpiece portion and the fourth hole in the longitudinal direction is formed to have a non-circular cross-sectional shape, which allows the airflow (ease of air escaping) within the tube hole to be changed compared to when the cross-sectional shape is circular, thereby allowing the tone to be adjusted.

[0036] Furthermore, the inner circumferential surface between the mouthpiece and the fourth hole may have a non-circular shape, so that the portion with a larger inner diameter is arranged in the front-to-rear direction.

[0037] According to this aspect, by orienting the portion with the larger inner diameter in the front-to-rear direction, the airflow is further improved, and the ease of playing is further improved.

[0038] In addition, a second thin-walled section having a thinner pipe wall thickness than other parts may be provided on the inner circumferential surface between the mouthpiece and the fourth hole, so that the shape of the inner circumferential surface is non-circular.

[0039] According to this aspect, by providing the second thin-walled portion, at least a portion of the inner circumferential surface between the mouthpiece and the fourth hole can be formed so that the inner circumferential surface has a non-circular shape. The second thin-walled portion can be formed accurately and with high precision, for example, by additionally performing cutting work to form the second thin-walled portion on a circular inner circumferential surface shape.

[0040] In addition, the finger hole pipe having at least the fourth hole and the upper pipe having a non-circular inner surface portion between the mouthpiece and the fourth hole may be connected so as to be able to rotate relative to each other around the pipe axis.

[0041] According to this aspect, by changing the orientation of the inner peripheral surface shape (non-circular) of the upper pipe around the pipe axis relative to the orientation of the finger holes, the airflow within the pipe holes can be changed to adjust the tone.

[0042] Furthermore, the mouthpiece pipe having the mouthpiece portion and the pipe near the upper end having at least the non-circular inner peripheral surface may be connected so as to be capable of relative rotation about the pipe axis.

[0043] According to this configuration, the orientation of the inner peripheral surface shape (non-circular) of the upper pipe can be changed around the pipe axis relative to the orientation of the mouthpiece, thereby changing the airflow within the bore and adjusting the tone color.

[0044] In the above-mentioned metal shakuhachi, at least one of the connection points between the multiple pipes may be arranged so that the upper and lower pipes are detachable and rotatable relative to one another, and the outer surfaces of the upper and lower pipes may be formed with marks for aligning the circumferential positions of the upper and lower pipes.

[0045] According to this aspect, when connecting a plurality of pipes together, the marks can be used as a guide for circumferential alignment of the upper and lower pipes, improving convenience.

[0046] The configuration may include three or more of the pipes and two or more connecting portions between the pipes, each of which has a configuration in which a small-diameter insertion portion provided at the end of one pipe is inserted into a mating hole provided in the other pipe, and at least two of the two or more connecting portions may have outer diameters of the insertion portions and inner diameters of the mating holes that are different from each other.

[0047] According to this aspect, when connecting three or more pipes together, incorrect connections can be prevented, improving convenience. [Effects of the Invention]

[0048] The present invention provides It is easy to support the weight of the shakuhachi, reducing the burden on the performer and creating an environment where the performer can concentrate more easily on their performance. We can provide metal shakuhachi. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0049] [Figure 1] 1A to 1C are schematic diagrams showing an embodiment of a shakuhachi, in which (A) is a front view, (B) is a side view, and (C) is a rear view. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view taken along a finger hole of the embodiment. [Figure 3] 1A is a schematic plan view of the embodiment, and FIG. 1B is a schematic bottom view of the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a schematic front view showing another embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a schematic front view showing yet another embodiment. [Figure 6] 10A, 10B, and 10C are schematic diagrams showing still another embodiment of the shakuhachi, in which (A) is a front view, (B) is a side view, and (C) is a rear view. [Figure 7] 1A is a schematic plan view of the embodiment, and FIG. 1B is a schematic bottom view of the embodiment. [Figure 8] 10A, 10B, and 10C are schematic diagrams showing still another embodiment of the shakuhachi, in which (A) is a front view, (B) is a side view, and (C) is a rear view. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view taken along a finger hole of the embodiment. [Figure 10] 1A is a schematic plan view of the embodiment, FIG. 1B is a schematic plan view of a second pipe of the embodiment, and FIG. 1C is a schematic bottom view of the embodiment. [Figure 11] 1A is a schematic rear view showing an example of a mark for alignment, FIG. 1B is a schematic vertical cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the first pipe, and FIG. 1C is a schematic vertical cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the second pipe. [Figure 12] 10(A) is a schematic longitudinal sectional view showing a part of yet another embodiment, and FIG. 10(B) is a schematic rear view showing an example of a mark for alignment. [Figure 13] 10A to 10D are schematic diagrams showing still another embodiment of the shakuhachi, in which (A) is a front view, (B) is a right side view, (C) is a rear view, and (D) is a left side view. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0050] An embodiment of a metal shakuhachi will be described below with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing one embodiment of the shakuhachi, with (A) being a front view, (B) being a side view, and (C) being a rear view. Fig. 2 is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of the same embodiment along the finger holes. Figs. 3(A) and (B) are a schematic plan view and a schematic bottom view of the same embodiment.

[0051] The shakuhachi of this embodiment is formed by connecting a plurality of metallic, roughly cylindrical pipes 1 to 6. The pipes 1 to 6 are made of, for example, duralumin (aluminum alloy) or magnesium alloy. A mouthpiece 11 is formed at the upper end of the first pipe 1, which forms the upper end of the shakuhachi. A large-diameter butt 61 is formed at the lower end of the sixth pipe 6, which forms the lower end of the shakuhachi. A tube hole 10 is formed inside the pipes 1 to 6, connecting the upper end to the lower end of the shakuhachi. The lower end 10a of the tube hole 10 is tapered, with the diameter increasing toward the bottom.

[0052] First to fifth holes 71 to 75 are formed on the side of the shakuhachi as finger holes. First to fourth holes 71 to 74 are drilled on the front surface of the shakuhachi along the length direction. Fifth hole 75 is drilled on the back surface of the shakuhachi at a position slightly above the fourth hole. In this embodiment, the first hole 71 and second hole 72 are formed in the fifth pipe 5 (the second pipe from the bottom), the third hole 73 is formed in the fourth pipe 4 (the third pipe from the bottom), and the fourth hole 74 and fifth hole 75 are formed in the third pipe 3 (the third pipe from the top).

[0053] The outer peripheral surface of the sixth pipe 6 is formed in a fan-shaped or drum-like shape, with the butt section 61 at the lower end being the largest diameter. As can be seen from Figures 1 and 2, the outer diameter of the butt section 61 (the outer diameter of the lower end of the sixth pipe 6) is larger than the outer diameter of the shakuhachi at the midpoint in the length direction. In this embodiment, the butt section 61 has the largest diameter in the shakuhachi. This makes it possible to form a metal shakuhachi with a butt section 61 that gives the impression of being similar to the butt section of a bamboo shakuhachi.

[0054] The side surfaces of the butt end 61 are formed with chamfers that extend from the lower end of the butt end 61 upward (towards the mouthpiece 11). In this embodiment, the chamfers include a pair of first chamfers 81 on each of the left and right sides of the butt end 61, and a second chamfer 82 on the back side of the butt end 61. Here, as shown in Figure 3, a straight line passing through the pipe axis O of the pipes 1 to 6 and the centers of the first to fourth holes 71 to 74 in plan and bottom views is defined as the front-to-rear axis X.

[0055] The first and second chamfered portions 81, 82 are formed on surfaces that are approximately parallel to the pipe axis O that passes through the centers of the pipes 1 to 6, and have a substantially triangular shape when viewed from the side or rear. The surfaces of the first and second chamfered portions 81, 82 may be inclined with respect to the pipe axis O so that the upper end portions approach the pipe axis O.

[0056] In the shakuhachi of this embodiment, the outer diameter of the butt section 61 is larger than the outer diameter of the middle section of the shakuhachi in the longitudinal direction, and the side of the butt section 61 is provided with chamfered sections 81, 82 that are chamfered in the vertical direction. Therefore, by placing the shakuhachi on a flat surface with the chamfered section 81 or 82 facing downward, it is possible to prevent the shakuhachi from rolling. Furthermore, by providing the chamfered sections 81, 82, it is possible to reduce the weight of the shakuhachi.

[0057] 3(B), the first chamfered portions 81 formed on each of the left and right sides of the butt 61 are inclined with respect to the front-to-back axis X so that the edges of the first chamfered portions 81 exposed at the bottom surface of the butt 61 (the bottom surface of the shakuhachi) are further away from the front-to-back axis X as they approach the front (the upper portion in FIG. 3(B)). As a result, when the shakuhachi is placed on a flat surface with the first chamfered portions 81 facing downwards, the first to fourth holes 71 to 74 face diagonally upwards, just like a bamboo shakuhachi with its butt curved forward, giving it a good appearance.

[0058] Furthermore, as can be seen from Figures 1(A) and 3(B), the left and right first chamfered portions 81 are formed on the left and right side surfaces of the butt portion 61 closer to the back surface, so that the first chamfered portions 81 are less visible when the shakuhachi is viewed from the front, improving the appearance when played.

[0059] Furthermore, because the second chamfered portion 82 is formed on the back side of the butt 61, it is difficult to see when the shakuhachi is viewed from the front, improving its appearance when played. Furthermore, the edge of the second chamfered portion 82 exposed on the lower end surface of the butt 61 is arranged perpendicular to the front-to-back axis X, so that when the shakuhachi is placed on a flat surface with the second chamfered portion 82 facing downward, the first to fourth holes 71 to 74 can be kept facing straight up, which is difficult to achieve with a shakuhachi made of bamboo.

[0060] As shown in FIG. 1 etc., the second pipe 2 and 5th Pipe 5 The outer diameters of the upper and lower ends of the pipe are larger than the outer diameter of the middle part of the length, and the outer surface is concave like a drum. This allows the upper and lower ends of the pipe to be thickened to ensure the strength of the joint, while reducing the weight of the pipe and therefore the weight of the shakuhachi, and reducing fatigue for the player.

[0061] Also, 5th Pipe 5 In this embodiment, a clamping portion 91 having a smaller diameter than the outer diameter of the portion where the second hole 72 is formed is formed on the outer peripheral surface between the first hole 71 and the second hole 72. 5th Pipe 5 The outer peripheral surface extending from the upper end of the second hole 72 through the portion where the second hole 72 is formed to the clamping portion 91 is formed in a tapered shape that narrows linearly downward.

[0062] In this way, by making the clamping portion 91, which the performer holds between the thumb and middle finger of their right (or left) hand, smaller in diameter than the outer diameter of the portion where the second hole 72 is formed, where the performer's index finger is placed, it becomes easier for the performer to hold the shakuhachi. In this embodiment, the outer peripheral surface from the portion where the second hole 72 is formed to the clamping portion 91 is tapered, narrowing linearly downward, making it easier for the performer to support the weight of the shakuhachi (downward load) upward with the thumb and middle finger of the right (or left) hand, thereby reducing the burden on the performer. Furthermore, because the outer peripheral surface from the portion where the second hole 72 is formed to the clamping portion 91 has a linear tapered shape that narrows downward, the angle that this outer peripheral surface forms with the pipe axis O is uniform from the upper portion to the lower portion of this outer peripheral surface. As a result, when a performer holds the outer periphery between the thumb and middle finger of the right hand (or left hand), the angle at which the thumb and middle finger contact the outer periphery can be kept the same regardless of whether the performer holds the outer periphery at the top or bottom. For example, even if a performer shifts the part of the shakuhachi they are holding upward from the clamping part 91 or returns it to the clamping part 91 while playing the shakuhachi, the angle at which the thumb and middle finger contact the outer periphery of the shakuhachi remains the same, so the performer can hold and support the shakuhachi with roughly the same force. This reduces the impact of the shakuhachi on the performer when they slide their grip, creating an environment that makes it easier for the performer to concentrate on playing. 。

[0063] 1 and 2, in this embodiment, the distance between the chamfered portions 81, 82 of the pipe butt 61 and the pipe axis O is the same as the outer radius of the first connecting portion 101 between the first and second pipes 1, 2, the second connecting portion 102 between the second and third pipes 2, 3, the fourth connecting portion 104 between the fourth and fifth pipes 4, 5, and the fifth connecting portion 105 between the fifth and sixth pipes 5, 6. The outer shapes of the connecting portions 101, 102, 103, 104, 105 are circular.

[0064] As a result, when a shakuhachi is placed on a flat surface with the chamfered portion 81 or 82 facing downward and an external downward load is applied (for example, by stepping on the shakuhachi), the bending load applied to the pipe connection portions 101-105 can be reduced, preventing damage to the shakuhachi and changes in tone. In this embodiment, the third connection portion 103 of the third and fourth pipes 3, 4 is formed with a smaller diameter than the connection portions 101, 102, 104, 105, but it may also be formed with the same outer diameter as these connection portions.

[0065] Next, the structure and connection of pipes 1 to 6 will be explained. The first pipe 1 has an upper end with a larger diameter than the upper and lower intermediate sections and the lower end, and is equipped with a mouthpiece 11, which is a diagonally cut-out on the front side of the upper end. The back side of the upper end of the first pipe 1 is formed with a chin rest 12, with the corners chamfered diagonally downward, so that when the performer presses their chin against it, the upper end of the first pipe 1 does not dig too deeply into the performer's chin. The outer surface of the second pipe 2 is shaped like a hand drum, making it lightweight.

[0066] The first connection portion 101 between the first pipe 1 and the second pipe 2 is formed by fitting a small-diameter first insertion portion 13 formed at the lower end of the first pipe 1 into a first fitting hole 21 formed at the upper end of the second pipe 2. The first pipe 1 and the second pipe 2 are connected in a detachable manner and relatively rotatable around the pipe axis O.

[0067] This allows the angle of the mouthpiece 11 relative to the front of the shakuhachi to be adjusted to suit the performer's preferences. Furthermore, the first pipe 1 can be replaced with one with a mouthpiece 11 suited to a particular style, such as the Kinko-ryu or Tozan-ryu style, improving versatility. Furthermore, the overall length of the shakuhachi can be adjusted by fitting a tubular spacer member over the first insertion portion 13 or fitting a tubular spacer member into the first fitting hole 21, connecting the first and second pipes 1 and 2, and then interposing the spacer member between the first pipe 1 and the second pipe 2. This allows the tuning (pitch) to be adjusted appropriately without changing the shakuhachi's timbre. It also compensates for changes in the shakuhachi's tuning due to internal temperature changes in pipes 1 through 6. This allows the performer to customize the tuning to their liking while minimizing changes in timbre without disrupting the balance within the pipes. It also allows the shakuhachi to maintain optimal timbre and tuning while adapting to climates around the world.

[0068] The second connection part 102 between the second pipe 2 and the third pipe 3 is formed by fitting a small-diameter second insertion part 22 formed at the lower end of the second pipe 2 into a second fitting hole 31 formed at the upper end of the third pipe 3. The second connection part 102 is formed by press-fitting or bonding so that the second pipe 2 and the third pipe 3 cannot be pulled out or rotated relative to each other.

[0069] The third connection portion 103 between the third pipe 3 and the fourth pipe 4 is formed by fitting the third insertion portion 41 formed on the upper end of the fourth pipe 4 into the third fitting hole 32 formed on the lower end of the third pipe 3. The outer circumferential surface of the third pipe 3 is tapered so that the diameter becomes smaller toward the lower end, while the outer circumferential surface of the fourth pipe 4 is tapered so that the diameter becomes smaller toward the upper end. This reduces the weight of the third and fourth pipes 3, 4, and makes the third connection portion 103 smaller in diameter than the second and fourth connection portions 102, 104.

[0070] The third connection part 103 is configured to be detachable, and the shakuhachi of this embodiment is configured to be separable into an upper tube part made up of the first to third pipes 1 to 3, and a lower tube part made up of the fourth to sixth pipes 4 to 6. Although not shown in the figures, alignment marks are formed on the lower part of the side surface of the third pipe 3 and the lower part of the side surface of the fourth pipe 4 to make it easier to align the first to fourth holes 71 to 74 straight when connecting the third pipe 3 and the fourth pipe 4.

[0071] The fourth connection portion 104 between the fourth pipe 4 and the fifth pipe 5 is formed by fitting a fourth insertion portion 51 formed at the upper end of the fifth pipe 5 into a fourth fitting hole 42 formed at the lower end of the fourth pipe 4. The fourth connection portion 104 is formed by press-fitting or bonding so that the fourth pipe 4 and the fifth pipe 5 cannot come out or rotate relative to each other. As described above, the outer circumferential surface of the fifth pipe 5 having the clamping portion 91 is formed in a hand drum shape to reduce its weight.

[0072] A fifth connection portion 105 between the fifth pipe 5 and the sixth pipe 6 is formed by fitting a fifth insertion portion 62 formed at the upper end of the sixth pipe 6 into a fifth fitting hole 52 formed at the lower end of the fifth pipe 5. The fifth connection portion 105 is formed by press-fitting or bonding so that the fifth pipe 5 and the sixth pipe 6 cannot be pulled out or rotated relative to each other.

[0073] In this way, the metal shakuhachi of this embodiment achieves an elegant and attractive shakuhachi by combining beautiful curves that express a taste of Japanese culture with sharp metalwork on the outer surface. Furthermore, because the shakuhachi of this embodiment is formed by connecting multiple pipes 1-6, the length of each pipe 1-6 can be shortened. This allows the bores 10 of the pipes 1-6 to be precisely machined, ground, or polished, enabling the mass production of uniform shakuhachi with the same tone and resonance. Furthermore, the bores 10 can be precisely machined to suit the player's preferences for the tone and resonance of the metal shakuhachi, enabling efficient production of custom-made and one-off models.

[0074] Next, a modified example of a metal shakuhachi will be described with reference to Figure 4. The shakuhachi of the embodiment shown in Figure 4 has a structure known as a seven-hole shakuhachi. On the front side of the shakuhachi, a sixth hole 76 is formed between the third hole 73 and the fourth hole 74, and a seventh hole 77 is formed at a position closer to the butt end 61 than the first hole 71. In this embodiment, the sixth and seventh holes 76, 77 are drilled in positions slightly shifted to the right (or left) of the arrangement of the first to fourth holes 71 to 74 as seen by the performer.

[0075] The sixth hole 76 is formed near the upper end of the fourth pipe 4 at a position that does not overlap with the small-diameter third insertion portion 41. The seventh hole 77 is formed near the lower end of the fifth pipe 5 at a position that does not overlap with the fifth fitting hole 52. By providing the sixth hole 76 and the seventh hole 77 at positions that do not overlap with the third insertion portion 41 and the third fitting hole 32 or the fifth fitting hole 52 and the fifth insertion portion 62, the sixth hole 76 and the seventh hole 77 can be easily drilled. Furthermore, the seventh hole 77 is formed near the lower end of the outer peripheral surface of the fifth pipe 5, which has a narrow tapered shape at the top, making it easy for the performer to block the seventh hole 77 with the little finger of their right (or left) hand.

[0076] Figure 5 shows yet another embodiment of a metal shakuhachi. This shakuhachi features a central pipe 7 formed from a single pipe, replacing the third pipe 3 and fourth pipe 4 of the shakuhachi shown in Figures 1 to 3. The central pipe 7 has third and fourth holes 73 and 74, similar to the third and fourth pipes 3 and 4 connected to it. It also has a second fitting hole 31 at its upper end and a fourth fitting hole 42 at its lower end. The outer surface of the seventh pipe is shaped like a drum, with a concave central portion in the vertical direction. The central pipe 7, the second pipe 2, and the fifth pipe 5 are connected in a manner that prevents them from coming loose and rotating relative to each other. This meets the need for a shakuhachi that cannot be separated into an upper and lower pipe (a so-called extended pipe). Furthermore, by forming the central pipe 7 from a single, seamless pipe, the outer surface can be shaped like a drum, with a more concave central portion in the vertical direction, resulting in a lighter weight.

[0077] The shakuhachi of this embodiment can reduce the number of joints and improve strength compared to the shakuhachi shown in Figures 1 to 3. Note that the shakuhachi of this embodiment may be made into a seven-hole shakuhachi by forming a sixth hole 76 and a seventh hole 77 (see Figure 4). Furthermore, the central pipe 7 and at least one of the second pipe 2 and the fifth pipe 5 may be connected detachably and relatively rotatably around the pipe axis O.

[0078] Next, with reference to Figs. 8 to 10, a further embodiment of a metallic shakuhachi will be described. Similar to the embodiment shown in Fig. 5, the shakuhachi of this embodiment is composed of five pipes: a first pipe 1 (an example of a mouthpiece pipe), a second pipe 2 (an example of a pipe near the upper end), a central pipe 7 (an example of a pipe for finger holes), a fifth pipe 5, and a sixth pipe 6, in that order from top to bottom. In this embodiment, a second connection 102 between the second pipe 2 and the central pipe 7 is formed by fitting a small-diameter third insertion portion 33 formed at the upper end of the third pipe 3 into a second fitting hole 23 formed at the lower end of the second pipe 2. In this embodiment, the length of the second pipe 2 and the length of the third pipe 3 (including the third insertion portion 33) are the same. This allows the same material (materials with the same raw material, external dimensions, etc.) to be used as the raw material for the pipes 2 and 3 before processing, thereby reducing manufacturing costs.

[0079] The connecting portions 101, 102, 104, and 105 connect the upper and lower pipes detachably and relatively rotatably around the pipe axis O. The connecting portions 101, 102, 104, and 105 have a circular outer shape. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, an O-ring 112 (not shown in FIG. 10(B)) is held in an annular O-ring groove 111 formed on the inner circumferential surface of each fitting hole 21, 23, 42, and 52. When the insertion portions 13, 33, 51, and 62 are fitted into the fitting holes 21, 23, 42, and 52, the O-ring 112 elastically deforms, connecting the upper and lower pipes relatively rotatably. Note that the upper and lower pipes may be fixed to at least one of the connecting portions 101, 102, 104, and 105 so that they cannot rotate relatively. For example, in the fifth connecting portion 105, the fifth fitting hole 52 of the fifth pipe 5 and the fifth insertion portion 62 of the sixth pipe 6 may be fixed with an adhesive or the like to prevent relative rotation. In this case, the O-ring groove 111 and the O-ring 112 may not be provided in the fifth connecting portion 105. Furthermore, the center pipe 7 may be composed of the third pipe 3 and the fourth pipe 4, as in the embodiment described with reference to Figures 1 to 3.

[0080] Each of the pipes 1, 2, 5, 6, and 7 is made of, for example, a magnesium alloy, and a coating (not shown) is formed on the surface of each pipe. The coating is, for example, a corrosion-resistant coating, formed of a metal coating such as an electroless nickel plating coating, and is formed on the entire outer and inner wall surfaces of each pipe, including the insertion portions, fitting holes, and end faces of each pipe. Forming a coating on the surface of each pipe prevents corrosion of the pipe material (for example, a magnesium alloy) due to moisture, etc.

[0081] Furthermore, if a lacquer layer is formed on the surface of each pipe, it will give a soft impression despite being made of metal and create a metal shakuhachi with a luxurious feel. The lacquer layer may be formed on the pipe surface via another layer such as the above-mentioned coating or resin layer, or it may be formed directly on the pipe surface. The lacquer layer may be formed on any or all of pipes 1, 2, 5, 6, and 7, or it may not be formed on the insertion portions or fitting holes of each pipe.

[0082] As shown in Figures 9 and 10(A), the inner circumferential surface of the first pipe 1, which forms the portion near the upper end of the shakuhachi and has the mouthpiece 11, has a non-circular cross-section (a cross-section perpendicular to the pipe axis O) in at least a portion of its length, including the portion near the opening at the upper end. In other words, the opening of the shakuhachi on the mouthpiece 11 side is non-circular in plan view. In addition, the chin rest 12, which is formed by cutting out a corner on the back side of the upper end of the first pipe 1 diagonally downward, is rounded in side view, which further prevents the chin rest 12 from digging into the performer's chin.

[0083] In this embodiment, the inner circumferential surface of the first pipe 1 has a first thin-walled section 14 on the rear side of the section extending from the longitudinal center to the opening of the mouthpiece 11, where the pipe wall thickness is thinner than other sections (the front side and left and right sections). As a result, the opening shape at the upper end (near the mouthpiece 11) and the shape of the inner circumferential surface near the upper end opening are formed into a roughly egg shape with a slightly pointed rear side. The inner diameter dimension D1a in the front-to-rear direction of the inner circumferential surface of the first pipe 1 (the front-to-rear dimension of the opening at the upper end) is larger than the inner diameter dimension D1b in the left-to-right direction (the left-to-right dimension of the opening at the upper end).

[0084] Such an inner peripheral surface shape can be formed, for example, by performing a lathe boring process on the material of the substantially cylindrical first pipe 1 to form a circular pipe hole 10, and then performing additional cutting work on the inner peripheral surface on the back side (the chin rest 12 side) to form the first thin-walled portion 14. In this embodiment, the first insertion portion 13 does not have the first thin-walled portion 14, and the thickness of the first insertion portion 13 is uniform, ensuring the strength of the connection portion 101.

[0085] Furthermore, the circumferential size and radial depth of the first thin-walled portion 14 are not limited to those in the embodiment and can be changed as appropriate. The first thin-walled portion 14 may be formed over the entire length of the inner circumferential surface of the first pipe 1. Furthermore, a plurality of first thin-walled portions 14 may be formed in the circumferential direction of the inner circumferential surface of the first pipe 1.

[0086] By forming the inner peripheral surface shape of the upper end portion near the opening into a non-circular shape, the breathability (ease of breathing into the bore 10) can be changed compared to when the inner peripheral surface shape is circular, and the tone can be adjusted. In particular, by making the inner diameter dimension D1a in the front-to-rear direction larger than the inner diameter dimension D1b in the left-to-right direction at the upper end portion near the opening of the bore 10, the breathability is improved and the instrument is easier to play.

[0087] As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10(A), the mouthpiece 11 has a mouthpiece notch 15 formed by cutting out a portion of the inner circumferential surface at the top end of the mouthpiece 11. In plan view, the distance D1c between the pipe axis O and the mouthpiece notch 15 is greater than the distance D1d between the pipe axis O and the center of the mouthpiece 11. Providing the mouthpiece notch 15 in the mouthpiece 11 improves breathability and makes the instrument easier to play. In this embodiment, a pair of mouthpiece notches 15 are formed symmetrically on the left and right edges of the downward-facing concave mouthpiece 11, formed by cutting out the front side of the top end of the first pipe 1 at an angle. This ensures that breath is blown into the bore 10 of the first pipe 1 in a balanced manner, resulting in a stable tone. Note that the size and shape of the mouthpiece notch 15 and the distance D1c are not limited to those shown in FIGS. 9 and 10(A) and can be modified as appropriate.

[0088] 9 and 10(B), at least a portion of the inner circumferential surface of the second pipe 2 has a non-circular cross section in the longitudinal direction. In other words, at least a portion of the inner circumferential surface between the mouthpiece 11 and the fourth hole 74 has a non-circular cross section in the longitudinal direction.

[0089] In this embodiment, the inner peripheral surface of the second pipe 2 is provided with second thin-walled portions 24, which are formed to be thinner than the other portions, in two opposing regions across the pipe axis O in a region extending from the longitudinal center to the opening of the first fitting hole 21. As a result, the cross-sectional shape of the portions where the second thin-walled portions 24 are formed is formed to be approximately elliptical. The inner diameter dimension D2a of the portions where the second thin-walled portions 24 are formed is larger than the inner diameter dimension D2b of the portions where the second thin-walled portions 24 are not formed.

[0090] Such an inner surface shape of the second pipe 2 can be formed, for example, by boring the material of the second pipe 2, which is approximately cylindrical, to form a circular pipe hole 10, and then performing additional cutting work to form the second thin-walled portion 24 on each of two opposing parts of the inner surface.

[0091] The second thin-walled portion 24 may be formed over the entire length of the inner circumferential surface of the second pipe 2. The circumferential size and radial depth of the second thin-walled portion 24 are not limited to those in the embodiment and can be changed as appropriate. The number of second thin-walled portions 24 formed on the inner circumferential surface of the second pipe 1 may be one, or three or more second thin-walled portions 24 may be formed on the inner circumferential surface of the second pipe 1 in the circumferential direction.

[0092] The second pipe 2 having the second thin-walled section 24, the first pipe 1 having the mouthpiece 11, and the central pipe 7 having the third to fifth holes 73-75 are connected so as to be rotatable relative to each other about the pipe axis O. That is, by rotating the second pipe 2 relative to the first pipe 1 and the central pipe 7 about the pipe axis O, the orientation of the portion of the second pipe 2 where the second thin-walled section 24 is formed (the portion with the larger inner diameter) can be changed relative to the orientation of the mouthpiece 11 and the third to fifth holes 73-75 (for example, the front-to-rear direction). Note that FIG. 9 shows a state in which the second thin-walled section 24 of the second pipe 2 is arranged in the front-to-rear direction with respect to the pipe axis O so that it overlaps with the front-to-rear axis X. That is, the figure shows a state in which the portion of the inner circumferential surface of the second pipe 2 where the inner diameter is larger due to the non-circular inner circumferential surface shape is arranged in the front-to-rear direction.

[0093] At least a portion of the inner circumferential surface between the mouthpiece 11 and the fourth hole 74 has a non-circular cross section in the longitudinal direction, which allows the breathability (ease of breath escape) within the tube hole 10 to be changed compared to when the cross section is circular, thereby adjusting the tone color. Furthermore, by changing the orientation of the location where the second thin-walled section 24 is formed around the pipe axis O relative to the orientation of the mouthpiece 11 and the finger holes, the breathability within the tube hole 10 can be changed and the tone color can be adjusted. In particular, by orienting the location where the second thin-walled section 24 (the location where the inner diameter is larger) in the front-to-rear direction, the breathability is improved and the instrument becomes easier to play. At least a portion of the inner circumferential surface in the longitudinal direction of at least one of the fifth pipe 5, the sixth pipe 6, and the center pipe 7 may have a non-circular cross section. For example, similar to forming the second thin-walled portion 24 of the second pipe 2, by additionally performing cutting work to form thin-walled portions on the inner surfaces of the pipes 5, 6, and 7, the inner surfaces of the pipes 5, 6, and 7 can be formed into a non-circular shape.

[0094] 10(C), the second chamfered portion 82 provided on the back side of the pipe butt 61 is smaller than the first chamfered portion 81 provided on the side of the pipe butt 61. Specifically, the length of the edge of the second chamfered portion 82 exposed on the lower end surface of the pipe butt 61 is shorter than the length of the edge of the first chamfered portion 81. Furthermore, the second chamfered portion 82 is formed on a surface that is approximately parallel to the pipe axis O, while the first chamfered portion 81 is formed on a surface that is inclined with respect to the pipe axis O so that the upper end portion approaches the pipe axis O.

[0095] In this embodiment, the first chamfered portion 81 is formed in a position on either the left or right side of the butt 61 closer to the back surface, such that the edge exposed on the lower end surface of the butt 61 is farther from the front-to-back axis X as it approaches the front. This makes the first chamfered portion 81 less visible when the shakuhachi is viewed from the front, improving the appearance when played.

[0096] Furthermore, the first chamfered portion 81 is formed with a surface that is inclined relative to the pipe axis O so that the upper end portion approaches the pipe axis O, so it can be formed longer in the direction of the pipe axis O compared to when it is provided parallel to the pipe axis O. In other words, the area that the first chamfered portion 81 occupies on the outer peripheral surface of the pipe butt 61 can be made larger. This allows the first chamfered portion 81 to have a greater presence.

[0097] The distance between the first chamfered portion 81 of the pipe butt 61 and the pipe axis O is approximately the same as the outer radii of the second connecting portion 102, the fourth connecting portion 104, and the fifth connecting portion 105. In this embodiment, the distance between the first chamfered portion 81 and the pipe axis O is slightly larger than the outer radii of the connecting portions 102, 104, and 105, and the difference between these dimensions is, for example, less than 1 millimeter, but these dimensions may be the same. The outer radius of the first connecting portion 101 is slightly smaller than the outer radii of the connecting portions 102, 104, and 105, and the difference between these dimensions is, for example, less than 1 millimeter, but these dimensions may be the same. The outer dimensions of the connecting portions 102, 104, and 105 may be different from each other.

[0098] Thus, even though the outer diameter of the butt end 61 is larger than that of the longitudinal middle part of the shakuhachi, providing the first chamfered portion 81 at the butt end 61 makes it possible to reduce the distance between the first chamfered portion 81 at the butt end 61 and the pipe axis O. Furthermore, by making the distance between the first chamfered portion 81 and the pipe axis O approximately the same as the outer radius of the pipe joints 101, 102, 104, 105, it is possible to reduce the bending load applied to the pipe joints 101, 102, 104, 105 when an external downward load is applied to the shakuhachi placed on a flat surface with the chamfered portion facing downward, thereby preventing damage to the shakuhachi and changes in tone.

[0099] The first chamfered portion 81 may be formed so that the distance between the first chamfered portion 81 and the pipe axis O is smaller than the outer radius of the connecting portions 101, 102, 104, and 105. Alternatively, the second chamfered portion 82 may be formed closer to the pipe axis O so that the distance between the second chamfered portion 82 and the pipe axis O is the same as or approximately the same as the outer radius of the connecting portions 101, 102, 104, and 105, or smaller than that.

[0100] In this embodiment, the size of the finger holes 71-75 (opening area as viewed from the front) is such that the third hole 73 is the smallest, followed by the fifth hole 75, and the first, second, and fourth holes 74 are the largest and are all the same size. Furthermore, the third and fifth holes 73 and 75 are circular, while the first, second, and fourth holes 71, 72, and 74 are elliptical and elongated in the vertical direction. For example, the length of the minor axis of the elliptical first, second, and fourth holes 71, 72, and 74 (the length of the diameter in the horizontal direction) is the same as the diameter of the circular fifth hole 75. Furthermore, the diameter of the third hole 73 is smaller than the diameter of the fifth hole 75.

[0101] The corners of the finger holes 71-75 on the front side and on the inner circumferential side may be chamfered to remove the corners. In particular, chamfering the corners of the finger holes 71-75 on the front side improves the feel when the performer presses the finger holes 71-75 with their fingers.

[0102] As shown in Figure 8(C), marks 121 for aligning the circumferential positions of the upper and lower pipes are formed on the outer circumferential surfaces of pipes 1, 2, 7, 5, and 6 in the vicinity of connecting portions 101, 102, 104, and 105. The marks 121 are also called alignment marks, and in this embodiment are laser markers formed by irradiating the pipe surface with laser light, but they may also be formed by other printing methods, such as with paint or engraving.

[0103] In this embodiment, the marks 121 are formed so that when the marks 121 of the upper and lower pipes are aligned along the pipe axis O to connect the pipes 1, 2, 7, 5, and 6, the mouthpiece portion 11 of the first pipe 1 faces forward, the second thin-walled portion 24 of the second pipe 2 is positioned front to back relative to the pipe axis O so as to overlap with the front-to-back axis X, the first to fourth holes 71 to 74 of the central pipe 7 and fourth pipe 4 face forward, and the chamfered portion 82 of the sixth pipe 6 faces directly behind (the back).

[0104] By providing the markings 121 on each of the pipes 1, 2, 7, 5, and 6 in this way, they can be used as a guide for circumferential alignment of the upper and lower pipes when connecting the pipes 1, 2, 7, 5, and 6, improving convenience. Furthermore, because the markings 121 are formed on the backsides of the pipes 1, 2, 7, 5, and 6, they are difficult to see when viewed from the front, preventing the markings 121 from detracting from the appearance of the shakuhachi when played. However, the markings 121 may also be formed on the side or front of the pipes 1, 2, 7, 5, and 6.

[0105] As shown in FIG. 11(A), the markings 121 may be scales 121a or symbols 121b (e.g., Arabic numerals) provided in the circumferential direction. While FIG. 11(A) illustrates the markings 121 provided on the back side of the second connecting portion 102, such markings 121 may also be applied to other connecting portions, such as the first connecting portion 101 or the fourth connecting portion 104. This configuration allows the upper and lower pipes to be easily and accurately aligned according to the performer's preferences, improving convenience. The markings 121 on the second pipe 2 may consist of only the scales 121a or only the symbols 121b. The scales 121a and the like may be formed on either the upper or lower pipe. Furthermore, when the upper and lower pipes (e.g., the fifth pipe 5 and the sixth pipe 6) are fixed together so as not to rotate, the markings 121 may not be formed at the connecting portion between these pipes.

[0106] In the above embodiment, the side surface of the first thin-walled portion 14 of the first pipe 1 is arranged substantially parallel to the pipe axis O, but as shown in Figure 11(B), the side surface of the first thin-walled portion 14 may be tapered so that it moves away from the pipe axis O as it approaches the upper opening of the shakuhachi. This eliminates a step on the lower end side of the side surface of the first thin-walled portion 14, and prevents moisture such as saliva from accumulating at the lower end of the first thin-walled portion 14.

[0107] 11(C), the lower end of the second thin-walled portion 24 may be tapered so as to approach the pipe axis O as it approaches the lower end, so as to prevent a step from being formed. In this case, the lower end of the second thin-walled portion 24 has a generally U-shape (or generally V-shape) with an upward opening when viewed from the front side (or rear side). This prevents moisture from accumulating at the lower end of the first thin-walled portion 14. Note that, if at least the lower end of the second thin-walled portion 24 is tapered so as to approach the pipe axis O as it approaches the lower end, a step can be prevented from being formed. However, the tapered portion may not be limited to the lower end, and for example, the entire second thin-walled portion 24 in the vertical direction may be tapered so as to approach the pipe axis O as it approaches the lower end.

[0108] In the above embodiment, the outer diameters of the insertion portions 13, 33, 51, and 62 are the same, and the inner diameters of the fitting holes 21, 23, 42, and 52 are the same. However, the diameters of the insertion portions and fitting holes of the connecting portions 101, 102, 104, and 105 may be different from one another. For example, as shown in FIG. 12(A), the outer diameter D33 of the third insertion portion 33 of the second connecting portion 102 and the inner diameter D23 of the second fitting hole 23 may be smaller than the outer diameter D13 of the first insertion portion 13 of the first connecting portion 101 and the inner diameter D21 of the first fitting hole 21. This prevents the second pipe 2 from being connected upside down. In this embodiment, the second thin-walled portion 24 is formed only on the upper half of the inner surface of the second pipe 2, which is particularly effective in preventing the second pipe 2 from being connected upside down.

[0109] 12(A), two O-ring grooves 111 may be provided in the fitting holes 21, 23, 42 at an interval in the direction of the pipe axis O, and an O-ring 112 may be held in each O-ring groove 111. According to this embodiment, at the connection parts 101, 102, 104, the two upper and lower O-rings 112 firmly hold the insertion parts 13, 33, 51, thereby suppressing wobbling of the upper and lower pipes.

[0110] By providing two O-rings 112, one above the other, in the fitting holes 21, 23, and 42, the feeling when connecting the upper and lower pipes is different from when only one O-ring is used. For example, when connecting the second connection part 102, by inserting the third insertion part 33 into the second fitting hole 23, the tip of the insertion part 33 first comes into contact with the O-ring 112 on the opening side of the fitting hole 23. When the insertion part 33 is further pushed forward, the first O-ring 112 (on the opening side) elastically deforms, allowing the insertion part 33 to advance further, and the first O-ring 112 slides against the outer peripheral surface of the insertion part 33, generating frictional resistance as the insertion part 33 advances deeper into the second fitting hole 23. Then, when the tip end of the insertion portion 33 reaches the second (rearward) O-ring 112, the resistance force increases, so by further increasing the force with which the insertion portion 33 is inserted, the second O-ring 112 elastically deforms, allowing further insertion of the insertion portion 33. Thereafter, the step surface on the upper side of the central pipe 7 (the step surface around the base end of the insertion portion 33) comes into contact with the lower end surface of the second pipe 2 (the end surface around the second fitting hole 23), and the second pipe 2 and the central pipe 7 are connected.

[0111] Thus, when inserting the third insertion portion 33 into the second fitting hole 23, the user pushes the insertion portion 33 in while feeling resistance from the first O-ring 112. After feeling increased insertion resistance from the second O-ring 112, the user finally applies additional force to elastically deform the second O-ring 112 and further push the insertion portion 33 in, completing the connection. This provides a pleasant tactile sensation that the second pipe 2 and the central pipe 7 are securely connected. Needless to say, a similar connection state and tactile sensation can be obtained in the connection portions 101 and 104. The fifth connection portion 105 may also have two O-ring grooves 111 and two O-rings 112, one above the other. The connection portions 101, 102, 104, and the fifth connection portion 105 may also have three or more O-ring grooves 111 and O-rings 112 spaced apart along the pipe axis O.

[0112] Figure 12(B) shows another example of the marking 121. Figure 12(B) illustrates the marking 121 provided on the back side of the first connecting part 101, with the marking 121 consisting of scale 121a provided in the circumferential direction being provided on the lower part of the back side of the first pipe 1, and the marking 121 consisting of a single vertical line being provided on the upper part of the back side of the second pipe 2. In this embodiment, the central scale of the scale 121a is made thicker than the other scales, making the central position easier to see. According to this embodiment, the first pipe 1 having the mouthpiece part 11 can be easily and accurately aligned with the second pipe 2 (and the central pipe 7, fifth pipe 5, etc. aligned with the second pipe 2) according to the performer's preference, improving convenience.

[0113] In the first connecting part 101, one mark 121 may be provided in the center of the back side of the lower end of the first pipe 1, and another mark 121 consisting of a scale 121a may be provided in the center of the back side of the upper end of the second pipe 2. It goes without saying that the mark 121 shown in Fig. 12(B) can be applied to the connecting parts 102, 103, 104, and 105, and that the shape, size, arrangement, etc. of the mark 121 can be changed as appropriate.

[0114] As shown in Figure 13, it is also possible to draw patterns 131-134 on the outer surface of the shakuhachi. The plan view and bottom view of this embodiment are the same as Figures 10(A) and (C). In this embodiment, the patterns 131-134 imitate the dark colored areas known as sasamon (bamboo crests) that appear on the surface of a bamboo shakuhachi, and have a roughly diamond-shaped shape that is elongated in the vertical direction. They are formed, for example, by irradiating the pipe surface with laser light. Note that there are no particular restrictions on the color, size, shape, arrangement, or formation method of the patterns.

[0115] The first pattern 131 is drawn across the first pipe 1 and the central pipe 7, the second pattern 132 is drawn across the central pipe 7 and the fourth pipe 4, and the third pattern 133 and the fourth pattern 134 are drawn across the fifth pipe 5 and the sixth pipe 6. In this way, by providing the patterns 131 to 134 across multiple upper and lower pipes, they can be used as marks for aligning the upper and lower pipes.

[0116] Although the embodiments have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and can be embodied in various forms. The configuration of each part is not limited to the illustrated embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the spirit of the present invention. Furthermore, the configurations described in the above-described embodiments and modified examples (notes, etc.) may be combined, and additions, omissions, substitutions, and other modifications of the configurations are possible.

[0117] For example, the positions, shapes, and numbers of the chamfered portions extending upward from the lower end of the butt end 61 are not limited to those in the above embodiment and can be modified in various ways. For example, while a first chamfered portion 81 is formed on each of the left and right side surfaces of the butt end 61, the first chamfered portion 81 may be formed on only one of the left and right sides of the butt end 61. Furthermore, the chamfered portion may be configured such that only a second chamfered portion 82 is formed on the back side, or such that only the first chamfered portion 81 is formed. For example, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the butt end 61 may be configured such that both left and right first chamfered portions 81 are formed on the butt end 61. Furthermore, multiple first chamfered portions 81 may be formed on at least one of the left and right sides of the butt end 61, or multiple second chamfered portions 82 may be formed on the back side of the butt end 61. Furthermore, the chamfered portions may be formed in positions that are exposed on the front side of the shakuhachi.

[0118] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the edge of the first chamfered portion 81 exposed on the lower end surface of the butt 61 (the lower end surface of the shakuhachi) is inclined with respect to the front-to-back axis X so that it moves further away from the front-to-back axis X, but the first chamfered portion 81 may be provided so that the edge is approximately parallel to the front-to-back axis X, or so that the edge is inclined with respect to the front-to-back axis X so that it moves closer to the front-to-back axis X. Furthermore, the edge of the second chamfered portion 82 exposed on the lower end surface of the butt 61 may be inclined with respect to the front-to-back axis X.

[0119] Furthermore, the chamfered portion is not limited to being formed on a flat surface, but may be formed by chamfering or cutting out a portion of the butt so as to prevent the shakuhachi from rolling when placed on a flat surface with the chamfered portion facing downwards. For example, the chamfered portion may be concave toward the center axis of the shakuhachi, or may be formed by an uneven surface with multiple concave and convex portions.

[0120] Furthermore, the first to fifth connecting portions 101 to 105 may be detachably connected, or may be inseparably fixed. For example, in the above embodiment, the first pipe 1 having the mouthpiece 11 is detachably connected to the second pipe 2, but the first pipe and the second pipe may be inseparably fixed. Furthermore, in the above embodiment, six pipes 1 to 6 are connected to form the shakuhachi, but the number of metal pipes forming the metal shakuhachi in the embodiments of the present invention may be any of two to five, or may be seven or more.

[0121] Furthermore, the outer shape of each metal pipe constituting the metal shakuhachi of the present embodiment is not particularly limited, as long as the outer diameter at the butt end is larger than the outer diameter at the midpoint of the shakuhachi in the longitudinal direction. For example, the first to fifth pipes 1 to 5 may be pipes with a uniform outer diameter in the axial direction of the pipe. Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the first to fourth holes 71 to 74 are aligned in a straight line along the length of the shakuhachi, but one or more of the first to fourth holes 71 to 74 may be offset to the right or left. Furthermore, in the connecting portions 101 to 105, the insertion portion and the fitting hole may be reversed between the upper and lower pipes compared to the above embodiment (for example, a fitting hole may be formed at the lower end of the first pipe 1 and the insertion portion may be formed at the upper end of the second pipe 2).

[0122] In the above embodiment, the butt section 61 is formed in a bold, flared horn shape, but the shape of the butt section 61 is not limited to this and may be slightly flared (slightly tapered) at the bottom. The entire butt section 61 may also have a uniform outer diameter along its length, but be thicker (larger) than the middle of the shakuhachi in the longitudinal direction.

[0123] It goes without saying that of the configurations of each part of the shakuhachi described in this specification, etc., all configurations other than the configuration in which chamfered portions 81, 82 are provided at the butt end 61, such as the configuration in which the interior of the second pipe 2 is formed to have a non-circular cross section and the configuration related to the internal shape of the mouthpiece portion 11, can be applied to a metal shakuhachi made by connecting multiple metal, approximately cylindrical pipes, regardless of the size of the outer diameter of the butt end or the presence or absence of chamfered portions. [Explanation of symbols]

[0124] 1. First Pipe 2. Second Pipe 3. Third Pipe 4. 4th Pipe 5. 5th Pipe 6 No. 6 Pipe 7 Center pipe 10 tube holes 10a Bottom end 11 Mouthpiece 12 Chin rest 13 First insertion part 14 1st thin section 15 Mouthpiece notch 21 First fitting hole 22 Second insertion part 23 Second fitting hole 24 2nd thin section 31 Second fitting hole 32 Third fitting hole 33 Third insertion part 41 Third insertion part 42 4th fitting hole 51 Fourth insertion part 52 5th fitting hole 61 Tube butt 62 5th insertion part 71 Hole 1 72 2nd hole 73 Hole 3 74 Hole 4 75 Hole 5 76 Hole 6 77 Hole 7 81 First chamfer 82 Second chamfer 91 Clamping part 101 First connection part 102 Second connection part 103 Third connection part 104 4th connection part 105 5th Junction 111 O-ring groove 112 O-ring 121 marks 121a scale 121b symbol 131 First Pattern 132 Second Pattern 133 Third Pattern 134 4th Pattern D1a Inner diameter in the front-to-back direction (the dimension of the opening at the top end in the front-to-back direction) D1b Left-right inner diameter (left-right dimension of the upper opening) D1c Distance between the pipe axis and the notch D1d Distance between the pipe axis and the center of the mouthpiece D2a Inner diameter of the second thin-walled section D2b Inner diameter of the second thin-walled section not formed D13 Outer diameter of first insertion part D21 Inner diameter of first fitting hole D23 Inner diameter of second fitting hole D33 Outer diameter of third insertion part O Pipe shaft X Anteroposterior axis

Claims

1. A shakuhachi made of metal, formed by connecting a plurality of approximately cylindrical pipes, with a mouthpiece at the top end and a butt at the bottom end, with a first hole, a second hole, a third hole, and a fourth hole formed in order from the bottom along the length of the front, and a fifth hole formed on the back, a clamping portion having a smaller diameter than the outer diameter of the forming portion of the first hole and the outer diameter of the forming portion of the second hole is formed on an outer circumferential surface between the first hole and the second hole, The outer peripheral surface extending from the second hole forming portion to the clamping portion is formed in a tapered shape that narrows linearly downward. A metal shakuhachi.

2. At least one of the plurality of pipes has an outer diameter at its upper end and lower end that is larger than the outer diameter at a longitudinal midpoint, and has an outer peripheral surface that is recessed in a drum shape.

2. A metal shakuhachi as claimed in claim 1.

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