Phil Nyokai James is a professional shakuhachi (Japanese bamboo flute) teacher and performer as well as avant-garde composer. Born in New York City in 1954, James studied shakuhachi with Ronnie Nyogetsu Reishin Seldin and Yodo Kurahashi. After receiving his master's license (shihan level), he began teaching and performing throughout the United States. His shakuhachi dojo is centered in Portland, Maine.
James' performances often juxtapose traditional Japanese meditative pieces (honkyoku) with electronic noise music. He frequently works with postmodern choreographers and butoh dancers.