Shinobue Lesson
Brussels - Paris - Online
The shinobue is a flute used in street music but also on the occasion of sophisticated artistic performances for example for Kabuki.
Traditionally, Japanese music is learned orally by shoga (onomatopoeic song). During the lesson you will also experience this learning method.
- For beginners we start with breathing technique and body relaxation
- Learning the notation (for shinobue)
- shinobue and Japanese music basic knowledge
- learning different type of traditional music (Kabuki, Japanese traditional dance music, folksongs). Solo pieces, ensemble music, modern melodies
- For in person lesson
possibility to play with other instruments comme koto, shamisen, taiko
Key features for advanced students
-
The spirit of traditional Japanese music
Experiencing nōkan-like resonance and Japanese aesthetics through the shinobue. -
Application to contemporary music
Using shifts of intonation, tone color, and breath for modern expression. -
Interaction with the flute
Exploring ways of creating sound and phrasing that enrich Western flute playing. -
Working with composers
Sharing insights from commissioning and premiering works that integrate the shinobue.
What I aim to share
My teaching emphasizes creating sound and exploring resonance.
Together, we will discover new musical possibilities at every level.
It seems difficult to get thoses traditional flutes. Please rest assured that I will help you to choose and to get the instrument even for outside of Japan.
The instructor has the necessary equipment for online lessons. To compensate for the potential lack of quality in live video calls, lessons can also be based on videos you send me beforehand.
You can join the lesson using your computer, smartphone, or tablet. However, for a high-quality experience, it is recommended to use an external microphone and speaker.
Sheet music will be sent by email, along with accompaniment if necessary.
There are opportunities to participate in events that introduce Japanese culture in Belgium etc.
There is also an online annual concert for online students
We are launching a new short-term shinobue workshop series in Brussels and Paris!
This program consists of 5 group sessions, covering the fundamentals of shinobue playing, ensemble techniques, and musical expression.
At the end of the series, participants who reach the required level will be invited to join a small performance (participation in the concert is optional and may involve an additional fee).
Two levels are available:
-
Débutant – for complete beginners
-
Non-débutant – for those with prior experience
Workshops will open with a minimum of 2 participants per level.
You may also choose to participate in single sessions.
-
Duration: 1 to 2 hours (depending on the number of participants)
-
Fee: 25€ per session
-
Locations: Brussels / Paris
📍 Dates – Brussels
14 December 2025, 17 January 2026, 8 February 2026, 21 March 2026, 4 April 2026
📍 Dates – Paris
6 Dec. 24, January 2026, 14 February, 14 March, 28 March, 11 April
Online, in person (Brussels / Paris), or hybrid
Lessons are open to everyone — from beginners to experienced players — and can be taken at your own rhythm:
💠 once or twice a month or in an intensive form
You can change your formula or rhythm anytime, depending on your needs and schedule.
Lessons are mainly offered in a 60-minute format, which allows for in-depth work on technique and musical expression.
For those who prefer a lighter approach or a more accessible option financially, half-lessons (30 minutes) are also available.
💠 Ensemble Lessons
In addition to individual lessons, I also offer ensemble sessions for students.
These allow participants to experience group performance, often leading to participation in concerts and cultural events.
📍 Dates – Paris 2025-2026
29-30 Nov. 6 Dec. 24, January 2026, 14 February, 14 March, 28 March, 11 April
Lessons are available online, in person (Brussels or Paris), or in a hybrid format, depending on your needs and location. All fees are indicated in the registration form.
💠 Trial Lesson
A trial lesson allows us to meet, define your goals, and assess the most suitable format for you.
-
60-minute trial lesson
-
30-minute trial lesson
After a trial lesson, students may also take occasional individual lessons without a fixed schedule (pay-per-lesson system).
💠 Regular Lessons
Regular lessons are designed for students who wish to progress with continuity and structure.
Lessons may be taken:
-
Once a month
-
Twice a month
-
Or as a short series of 4 lessons
(The exact schedule may vary depending on both the tutor’s and the student’s availability.)
Available formats:
-
4 lessons (60 minutes each)
-
4 half-lessons (30 minutes each)
💠 Children & High School Students
Private Lessons
Lessons for young students are organised on a monthly basis, with lesson duration adapted to age and concentration level.
-
Elementary school students
30 minutes per lesson -
Middle & high school students
45 minutes per lesson
A trial lesson is recommended before starting regular lessons.
💠 Workshops (Group Lessons)
Group workshops are offered occasionally, focusing on:
-
Technical foundations
-
Ensemble playing
-
Specific themes or repertoire
Practical Information
Fees
All lesson fees, workshop fees, and applicable studio costs are detailed in the registration form.
Payment
Payment by credit card is possible.
Fees include lesson preparation, teaching materials, and applicable taxes.
Lesson Policy
Payment
Please bring the lesson fee at the beginning of the session, or transfer it in advance via bank transfer or PayPal.
For lesson series (4 lessons or more), students are kindly asked to attend at least one lesson per month.
For lower frequency, the pay-per-lesson option is recommended.
Cancellation
For in-person lessons, studio fees apply according to the studio’s cancellation policy.
Cancellation on the day of the lesson will incur the studio cancellation fee.
Lesson fees (online or in person) are charged in case of cancellation at the time of the lesson or absence without notice.
Changing Lesson Dates
If a lesson date needs to be changed for the student’s convenience, rescheduling is possible subject to availability.
Please note that no refunds are possible once payment has been made.
Additional Costs
Any additional expenses are not included in lesson fees, such as:
Purchase or rental of musical instruments
Textbooks or sheet music
Participation fees for concerts or events (participation is optional)
If you’d like, I can next:
Lighten this further for a minimalist homepage version
Adapt it into perfectly aligned French and Japanese versions
Or format it for mobile readability
This version reflects a high-level, international teaching practice — calm, transparent, and respectful of both students and your time.
Already a few years ago I was searching the internet for a shinobue teacher.. I wanted to join the local Kagura autumn festival dance and music group. I found Nozomi Kanda's page and videos. I was happily surprised she was playing, western classical music, contemporary music and also Japanese music. I send her a mail out of the blue and she kindly agreed to teach me,primarily via skype. A dream came true.
Due to Nozomi's knowledge of western and Japanese music culture, it is always very inspiring for me to learn from her. Eventually, II could become a member of the Kagura group.and I hope to be able to play some contemporary music too in the near future. By studying the shinobue, I can deepen my knowledge, insight and experience of Japanese traditional crafts and arts. Nozomi, Thank you very much.
(Japanese paper craftsman / Shikoku - Japan )
I started the shinobue course 9 months ago. After several classes, I mastered the basic techniques under Nozomi's patient teaching. I started playing several scores with the other students. Together, we participated in a show at the end of the year. I am very happy to have the opportunity to share the delicate sound of shinobue with others. In the future, I wish I could always carry my flute on vacation. I will become a nomadic flutist! :)
(office worker / Paris - France)
After three years of Shinobue, I only play that now. As a classic classical flutist, I devote myself fully to shinobue now, which I practice with taiko and koto, or accompany Awa dance.
What I appreciate in this instrument is its raw and authentic side, but also the melodies, whether traditional or contemporary. The teaching Nozomi gives me is precious, serious and relaxed at the same time. Everything happens there: breathing, breathing technique, play, posture, attitude; a complete course that culminates at the end of the year in a concert where percussion, stringed instruments and shinobue mix, the ideal moment to share serenely our annual work in a friendly atmosphere.
I can only encourage you, musicians, curious, music lovers of all kinds, to discover this wonderful instrument, and this wonderful teacher
(Student / Paris - France)