Ken LaCosse dedicated more than 30 years of his life to flute making. It is with profound sadness that I announce that he passed away in June 2019.
Ken first got involved with shakuhachi in 1987 after reading about a Japanese shakuhachi maker. At first, using local bamboo, Ken started crafting shakuhachi by look and feel. Following these initial experiments Ken sought out formal shakuhachi playing lessons and started crafting traditional shakuhachi using Japanese bamboo. Ken, who adopted the maker’s name Mujitsu, created hundreds of flutes, which found their way into the hands of players around the globe.
Ken’s inquisitive nature spurred him on to constant experimentation of his shakuhachi design. In 2002, Ken collaborated with Brain Tairaku Ritchie to create Taimu, a shakuhachi of extended length and width. Professional shakuhachi players from around the world perform and record on these instruments.
In addition to his status as a maker, Ken also created the world Shakuhachi Discussion group to foster shakuhachi knowledge. He freely shared his experience through writing and instructional videos, inspiring a new generation of makers and players.
This website will be maintained so that others can access its resources and as a tribute to Ken’s dedication, compassion and contribution to shakuhachi flute making. Please direct any questions to suefrey@gmail.com. – Susanne Frey