THE SULTAN'S PLEASURE Javanese Gamelan & Vocal Music Recorded under special arrangement with a Javanese Sultan, The Sultan's Pleasure features performances on royal gamelan sets by the royal ensemble of the palace of Yogyakarta. Some pieces are also accompanied by percussion and vocals. Extensive notes on the music and instruments are included. (MOW 116)

SHINGETSU Tadashi Tajima The shakuhachi, a notched bamboo flute, is the most important wind instrument of Japan. This recording features eight pieces for solo shakuhachi played in a distinctive style by Tadashi Tajima, one of Japan's finest traditional flute masters. Tajima's breath, phrasings and use of long flutes combine to make this an exceptional recording. Excellent for concentration and relaxation. "Stunningly contemplative... wonderful music for practicing yoga or t'ai chi, or for a reminder of mindfulness in everyday life." NAPRA Review (MOW 124)

OFFERINGS Ralph Samuelson The shakuhachi, a vertical bamboo flute, is the most important wind instrument of Japan. The pieces on Offerings are characterized by a focus on breath as the central element to meditation, by long and full notes, and by an emphasis on each individual tone and its subtle variations in pitch, quality, and dynamics. The music explores the deep world within each sound and brings the performer and listener to a state of stillness & harmony. (MOW 153)

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