Fue (flute)

The fue (笛) is a generic term for flute in Japanese. It encompasses a wide variety of flutes, both transverse (held horizontally) and end-blown (held vertically), each with its own specific construction, tuning, and musical application. Rather than referring to a single type of instrument, fue serves as an umbrella term similar to the English word "flute."

Common types of fue include:

• Shinobue (篠笛): A transverse flute typically made of bamboo, commonly used in matsuri (festivals) and folk music. It often has seven finger holes and is untuned, meaning its pitch varies slightly depending on the maker and the specific bamboo used.

• Ryūteki (龍笛): A transverse flute used in gagaku (ancient Japanese court music). It has a complex fingering system and produces a distinctive, somewhat breathy sound.

• Nōkan (能管): A transverse flute used in noh theatre. It has a unique internal construction that gives it a piercing and somewhat dissonant sound. The Nōkan is crucial in setting the atmosphere of Noh plays.

• Shakuhachi (尺八): An end-blown flute typically made of bamboo. It is associated with Zen Buddhism and is known for its meditative and expressive qualities. While technically a fue, the Shakuhachi is often considered a distinct instrument due to its unique construction and playing style.

The specific construction, number of finger holes, tuning, and role in Japanese music varies significantly depending on the type of fue. Understanding the context and the specific type of fue being discussed is essential for accurate interpretation.