Sonica Instruments – Sho

🎼 Virtuoso Japanese Series: SHO 🎼
Unleash the celestial sounds of Japan’s timeless gagaku tradition with Sonica Instruments’ SHO — the world’s first comprehensive sho sample library! 🌟

This stunning free reed musical instrument, a cornerstone of gagaku court orchestra music, features 17 slender bamboo pipes, often likened to a resting phoenix 🦅 for its elegant shape. The sho’s fluid tones evoke the radiance of light from the heavens, offering unparalleled depth and authenticity in every note.

Key Features to Illuminate Your Compositions:

🎶 Authentic Articulations

Experience an array of articulations meticulously recorded:

• Straight, Flutter, Sforzando, Crescendo
• Tremolo (Slow & Fast) with exhaled/inhaled tones

Crafted with precision, these recordings reflect the artistry of master player Ko Ishikawa, blending ancient techniques with contemporary versatility.

🎹 Innovative Interface for Dynamic Control

• Aitake Clusters (11 tone clusters) & Itchiku Single Tones
• Pipe Indicator: Monitor real-time pipe arrangements and traditional note names.
• Key Modes:
  • Chromatic Mode: Full-scale mapping.
  • Trad. Fingering Mode: Mimics real sho fingerings for immersive playability.

🌐 Unmatched Tuning Flexibility

• Pythagorean (430 Hz & 440 Hz) and Equal Temperament options.
• Fine-tune each pitch for custom scales and save your unique setups.

Breath-Taking Expression 🚶‍♀️💨

Recreate the sho’s flowing tones with Key Trigger Connection for seamless articulation changes and polyphonic legato for smooth transitions. Adjust breath dynamics to achieve natural, expressive performances on a keyboard or wind controller.

Ensemble Elegance 🎵

• Choose from Solo, Duo, or Trio ensembles.
• Fine-tune balance and spatial positioning for rich, unison textures true to gagaku performance.

Studio-Grade Sound Design 🛠️

• Multi-Microphone Samples: Direct, Overhead, Room, and Stereo Mix positions.
• Full mixing control: Adjust Volume, Pan, Reverb, and EQ for each channel.
• Convolution Reverb: Achieve stunning in-instrument soundscapes.

Enhanced Workflow with MIDI & NKS Support 🎛️

• Groove Browser: Drag & drop traditional MIDI grooves directly into your DAW. Customize playback tempo, velocity, and swing!
• Compatible with Kontakt Player, Kontakt Full (v6.6+), and Komplete Kontrol.
• Native Access and NKS-ready for seamless hardware integration.