Uchi (hammer-on)

Uchi is the technique of sounding the string by hammering down on it with the finger.

First, strike the middle string. Then, firmly press the 3rd position on the middle string with your ring finger. If you press it firmly, you will hear the 3rd position sound.

Note: Uchi can be used on any position (except '0') on any string.

Uchi in notation

This is how the Uchi technique looks when inserted in notation.

Measure 1 w/Uchi

Measures 1-4 w/Uchi

When you can comfortably play these four measures with Uchi, continue on.

Hajiki (pull-off)

Hajiki is the technique where you sound the string by pulling it far enough so it snaps out of your finger, causing it to sound.

If you are sounding the '0' position, pull the string with your index finger towards your palm until it snaps out.

If you are sounding '3', press down the 3rd position with the index finger, and pull the string towards your palm with the ring finger.

Hajiki may a difficult technique to understand. Once again, just imitate what's being shown on the video, and you will be doing it right.

Hajiki in notation

If hajiki looks confusing in notation, then just watch and imitate.

Measure 5 w/Hajiki

If hajiki looks confusing in notation, then just watch and imitate.

Measure 6 w/Hajiki

Measure 6 uses the same notes and the same techniques as measure 5, but simply moved up one string. The notes are played on middle and thin string, whereas measure 5 is played on the thick and middle string.

Measures 5-6

Measures 7-8

Measures 5-8

Measure 1-8

In this chapter, you will use everything you've learned so far to play all eight measures. Good luck!

Measures 1-8

Congratulations! You have played the entire first section of this piece, complete with all the techniques!

If you enjoyed this learning series, you can improve your skills and learn more songs with more instructional videos only at Bachido.com*.

When you are ready, continue on to learn the next two parts of this song!

Prepare for Parts B & C

Please watch the "New position marks" and "Suri (Slide)" videos to prepare yourself before continuing.

Download PDF

Please download the PDF here. When you can play Part B confidentially, continue on.

Part B

If you want some more challenge, try it at medium speed and fast speed!

Part C

If you want some more challenge, try it at medium speed and fast speed!

Final PDF

Please download the final PDF of Kuroishi Yosare Bushi.

An extra ‘3’ is inserted between Part A & B and Part B & C. This is done to connect all three parts together. Also, there is a repeat mark on the last measure. Once the player gets to the repeat mark, the song can be played from the beginning again. If you want to end the piece, just play the notes after the repeat symbol.

Kuroishi Yosare Bushi

This it it! You are doing it!!!

The End

Congratulations! You have completed the entire piece, Kuroishi Yosare Bushi!

If you have any questions or need help, please visit the Bachido Community. You can get help from me (Kyle), as well as many other friendly (I think) shamisen players, there.

From all of us at Bachido, thank you for watching this video, and we hope to hear from you soon!