Ryuteki, Resin, Black

This item is comparable to a plastic (Western) recorder: the sound may not be as good as a traditionally-made ryuteki, but if you put in the time you will definitely learn how to play it. Even though I played Western flute for years, I found this flute not so responsive at first but after a few weeks I got the jist of it. One must consciously think not to use vibrato or tonguing as in Western flutes, and the use of the middle finger joints versus keys/pads takes a bit of getting used to. Too, it takes alot more air to produce tones versus other wind instruments. I would not hesitate to purchase this item again, as it is an economical way of acquiring and learning the ryuteki.Ultra-fast shipping from a company I have dealt with before!