Shakuhachi

The Shakuhachi is a traditional Japanese bamboo flute that dates back to the 8th century; it was originally played by Zen Buddhist monks as a means of meditation, which is a fancy way of saying they liked to blow into things quietly. Its sound is hauntingly airy and entirely capable of making your cat look up with concern, mixing elements of nature and spirituality in every note. The Shakuhachi has made quite the impact, blending into various music genres, proving that even a simple piece of bamboo can get invited to all the right parties.