Introduction

Kamashi is probably the most recognizable phrase in Jonkara pieces. Those who've rarely heard tsugaru shamisen recognize that phrase, and no doubt it is the first thing beginners want to learn.

Step 1 (4)

Step 2 (43)

Step 3 (430)

Step 4 (4300)

Conclusion

And there we have it! Again, it is a short phrase, but the many techniques used can make the phrase difficult to first learn.

Remember!

Be patient with yourself, relax as much as possible and have fun! :-)

Remember!

Be patient with yourself, relax as much as possible and have fun! :-)

Remember!

Be patient with yourself, relax as much as possible and have fun! :-)

In Action!

Here we incorporate the phrase into the ending of a typical version of tsugaru jonkara bushi.

Remember!

Be patient with yourself, relax as much as possible and have fun! :-)

Remember!

Be patient with yourself, relax as much as possible and have fun! :-)

Remember!

Be patient with yourself, relax as much as possible and have fun! :-)

Dynamics

This technique is most always executed at fast speed, but it's good to see how it works at slow speed, and how the sound changes as it gets faster.

Combining all forms

When you can comfortably play all four forms, you can incorporate them all in, for example, an awesome ending to Tsugaru Jonkara Bushi!

Switching Fingers

Kamashi is typically executed with the ring and index finger.

Here is Kevin's practice pattern to help you learn this advanced technique!

Switching Strings

Recently, players have been incorporating the other two strings into kamashi to increase the wild energy of their playing.

Here's another practice pattern to help you learn this string switching technique!

When modern players want to build up the 3rd Kamashi Form into a crescendo, they end by activating the sawari to bring as much depth, body and noise into the technique.

Needless to say, this was quite spontaneous.