Shamisen : Traditional Japanese String Instrument
Details
The shamisen is a traditional 3-string Japanese instrument similar to a banjo and traditionally used to accompany Japanese Minyou, or folk music. There are, however, varying styles of playing the shamisen, including the up-tempo and percussive Tsugaru style of the Tsugaru region in Northern Japan. In recent years, Tsugaru Shamisen has become popularized by the soulful and bombastic style of the Yoshida Brothers, whose playing have turned the folk instrument into a stage performance. Although it may seem daunting to learn, anyone can learn to play simple songs like the popular Japanese folksong "Sakura Sakura" or even up-tempo pieces on the shamisen quickly.
- Availability:
- Flexible! Please get in touch to request a day and time.
- Duration:
- 1 hour
- Speaks:
-
日本語 (Fluent)
English (Intermediate)
- Area:
- Tokyo
- Nearest station:
- Akebonobashi Station (曙橋駅) on the Toei Shinjuku Subway Line
- Min Participants:
- 1
- Max Participants:
- 3
- Possessions:
- None
- Remarks:
- Review (1)
-
Richard Kozan is amazing at playing the shamisen. He is a great teacher, very friendly, and very good at giving direction. I had no trouble playing the shamisen, and picked it up quite easily. Also, ask Kozan to demonstrate playing the Koto on your visit... you won’t regret it. If you’re after a traditional Japanese experience, I suggest trying this out as it fun and unique activity... one to boast to your jealous friends about back home!
As an added bonus, he made traditional Japanese tea for me which really hit the spot.
About the host
Kozan
Kozan holds the rank of instructor in the Oyama school of Tsugaru Shamisen, and can also play the koto(Japanese harp) and the Okinawan sanshin. In addition to being experienced in Japanese music, he also holds a deep understanding of Japanese arts and culture. He wants to help expose non-Japanese people to Japanese culture through his teachings and his work.
