Everything you need to know about the Shamisen!
Shamisen Materials
Like buying any instrument, there are a few important factors to know in making an informed purchase. If this is your first time buying a shamisen, the information below will help you decide what shamisen materials are right for you. The quality of wood for the sao (neck) [...]
The Birth of Tsugaru
(Taken from the book Shamisen of Japan) The Tsugaru style of shamisen is said to have been created by goze, blind female musicians who belonged to a guild and traveled widely, singing epic poems and popular songs of the time accompanied with the shamisen. However, blind men [...]
Styles of Shamisen
First, let’s learn about the three main sizes of shamisen and a few of the many styles associated with them. Note: The shamisen styles explained below are commonly used with a particular neck size, but please know that the styles don’t necessarily require specific sizes. For example, shamisen for [...]
Brief History of the Shamisen
History of the Shamisen (Taken from the book Shamisen of Japan) This is a brief, rudimentary history of the shamisen which will, at the very least, allow you to sound smart at a drunk party. The shamisen had many forms before it arrived to Japan, though it’s unclear [...]