James Nyoraku Schlefer

**James Nyoraku Schlefer** is a celebrated shakuhachi master, blending traditional Japanese bamboo flute artistry with contemporary innovation. Based in New York, he’s known for expanding the shakuhachi’s reach through cross-genre collaborations and commissions, merging its meditative tones with Western classical, jazz, and experimental styles. A respected teacher and performer, Schlefer holds the rare title of *dai shihan* (grand master) and has premiered dozens of new works, helping the ancient instrument thrive in modern soundscapes.

His recent releases, like the ambient-inspired *Shakuhachi for Airports* and the dynamic *Flare Up*, showcase his versatility, while *Spring Sounds Spring Seas* highlights collaborative energy. Tracks such as *Wind Heart* and *Solstice Spirit* reflect his knack for evocative, seasonally themed compositions. Whether preserving tradition or pushing boundaries, Schlefer’s work breathes fresh life into the shakuhachi’s timeless voice.

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