The shakuhachi is an end-blown Japanese bamboo flute played for centuries as a religious or meditative practice. With its unique sound and expressive voice, the shakuhachi can create both great simplicity and great beauty. 

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Dr. Suggs studies shakuhachi with Dai-Shihan James Nyoraku Schlefer and received her jun shihan shakuhachi accreditation from his New York City Kyo-Shin-An dojo and her Shihan (Master) license from Dai-Shihan Kurahashi Yoshio II in Kyoto, Japan. ​

 

Dr. Suggs also performs solo shakuhachi recitals, gives lecture demonstrations and presents a special multimedia, family-friendly event called "Shadows of the Samurai" which incorporates storytelling, music and puppetry. "One of the best descriptions I've heard of our program is that in this age of computer-generated special effects, 'Shadows of the Samurai' is 'aggressively analog. There's no attempt to hide the creativity of the five individuals involved in the performance – real people are creating this, and blending an ancient artistic tradition with modern sensibilities while doing so."–Nora Suggs interview with Arts Around Town.

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Nora’s shakuhachi website: www.norakumusic.com.