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Basics
Learn all the basics of the shamisen here – from assembling the instrument to tuning and maintenance. Everything you need to get started.
Playing and Technique
These articles cover everything about playing the shamisen and its techniques. Find practical song tutorials, technique tips, and practice aids all in one place.
Shami Life Hacks
Discover the best shamisen life hacks – from DIY projects to tips for everyday challenges – packed with insider knowledge to make your life easier.
Special
For those who want to dive deep into the world of the shamisen, explore fascinating expert knowledge about this captivating instrument!
All Articles
Long String, Long Life?
Many beginners feel like their strings break constantly. What initially brings pride can quickly turn into frustration. Does it really have to be that way? There are several factors that can shorten a string’s lifespan. If you want to avoid unnecessary string wear and save yourself from constantly restringing and breaking in new strings, there are a few things to keep in mind.
The Yubisuri
What is the yubisuri for, and how do you wear this little accessory correctly? The yubisuri is a very practical companion that rightly has a permanent place in every shamisen player’s case. You can read here about the differences between the various models and how to find the right size.
How to Repair Your Bachi
No matter how carefully you try to avoid it, you might drop your bachi or it falls off your desk. In the best case, you just get a scare, but often a corner breaks off. It needs to be repaired, but fortunately, it’s quite easy.
The Beginner’s Set: What You Need to Play Shamisen
A complete shamisen starter set can be kept quite minimal in the beginning. You don’t need much to start playing songs on the instrument. However, to keep your shamisen in good condition, it needs proper care and storage. Here, I introduce several levels of equipment, starting with the minimal set, which can and should be gradually expanded.
Well Protected: The Nagabukuro
An accessory that is often used (slightly) incorrectly is the nagabukuro. This simply cut, rectangular, soft case protects the instrument from dust, dirt, curious paws, and small loose items forgotten in the case. Many players don’t give much thought to its use and make easily avoidable mistakes when putting it on.
Sawari – The Fascinating Buzz
The sawari is the shamisen’s characteristic buzzing sound, which makes the music of this instrument especially fascinating. There are two different mechanisms that produce it — they look quite different at first, but both are based on the same principle. So what exactly is behind this mysterious buzzing and humming?
Dougomu and DIY Alternatives
Positioning and balancing the shamisen correctly on your thigh is rarely easy at first. A simple solution is a non-slip mat. I’ll show you how to place the professional mats most effectively and how to make one yourself at home.
Bunkafu — How to read Shamisen Tabulature Notation
Bunkafu notation is the tablature system used for shamisen music. It’s very visual, which makes it quick and easy to learn. This overview explains how to read the notation and what the interesting special symbols mean.
How to Mark Positions on the Shamisen with Fujaku Strip or Dots
Anyone playing with Bunkafu notation (tablature for shamisen) faces the big challenge of assigning specific sounds — and thus specific positions on the shamisen neck — to the numbers on the page.
While learning by ear was the original method, nowadays almost every beginner sticks dots on their neck to navigate more easily.
You can mark the positions individually or use a handy Fujaku strip.
Assembling the Shamisen
Most shamisen are delivered disassembled. For many beginner players, the first challenge is putting the instrument together correctly. This article explains how to get it right on your first try.
The Koma – More Than a Pretty Accessory
Despite its small size, the koma plays a big role in playing. Read here to learn how the koma affects tone and feel.
How to String the Shamisen – Guide
Learn how to quickly and elegantly attach new strings on your shamisen and discover tips for each individual string.
Tips for Tuning the Shamisen
Slipping pegs? Frustrated with unstable tuning or weak grip? Here are the best tricks to quickly tune your strings and keep them stable.
The Three Classic Shamisen Tunings
There are three basic tunings on the shamisen that every player should know and be able to tune without much thought. I’ll explain how honchōshi, niagari, and sansagari are tuned and show you an easy way to remember them.
