Shamisen

Tokyo Geisha with Shamisen c1870s,

Maple Leaves Koyo and Shamisen by Kitagawa Utamaro c1803

Man playing shamisen

File:Shamisenwithvocals 2006.ogg

Shamisen diagram

Shamisen compare

Shamisen is a traditional Japanese three-stringed musical instrument, which is played with a plectrum called a bachi. The body of the shamisen resembles a drum, made of wood and covered on both sides with cat or dog skin, although in modern times, synthetic materials are also used due to animal rights concerns. The neck of the shamisen is long and fretless, allowing a wide variety of sounds and pitches to be produced. The instrument has a distinctive, sharp sound that can vary from gentle and melodic to dynamic and percussive, depending on the playing style.

History

The shamisen originated from the Chinese sanxian, a similar three-stringed instrument, and was introduced to Japan in the 16th century. It quickly became popular in the Edo period (1603–1868) among the geisha and in the kabuki and bunraku (puppet theater) performances. Over time, several different styles of shamisen music and playing techniques developed, including Nagauta, Tsugaru, Jiuta, and Kouta, each with its own unique characteristics and repertoire.

Construction

The construction of a shamisen varies depending on its type and the music genre it is used for. The three main types are Hosozao, Chuzao, and Futozao, which differ in the thickness of the neck and the size of the body. The strings were traditionally made of silk, but nowadays, nylon or tetron strings are more common due to their durability and sound quality.

The Sao (neck) is made from wood, often ebony or rosewood, and is divided into three parts that can be disassembled for easy transportation. The Dou (body) is typically made from red sandalwood or karin and is covered with skin on both sides to create the resonating surface. The Itomaki (tuning pegs) are also made of wood and are used to tune the strings to the desired pitch.

Playing Techniques

Playing the shamisen involves various techniques, including striking the strings with the bachi, plucking the strings with fingers, and using the left hand to press the strings against the neck to change the pitch. The bachi is made from different materials such as ivory, wood, or plastic, each giving a different tone and attack to the sound.

One of the most challenging and renowned styles is the Tsugaru style, originating from the Tsugaru region in Aomori Prefecture. It is characterized by its energetic and improvisational playing, requiring considerable skill and strength from the performer.

Cultural Significance

The shamisen has played a significant role in Japanese music and culture for centuries. It is not only an instrument for entertainment but also a means of storytelling and emotional expression. The shamisen is often featured in traditional Japanese theater, such as kabuki and bunraku, where it accompanies the action on stage and enhances the emotional atmosphere.

In recent years, the shamisen has gained international attention, with artists and musicians incorporating its sound into various music genres, including jazz, rock, and pop. This fusion of traditional and modern music has helped to revive interest in the shamisen among younger generations, ensuring its continued relevance in the global music scene.

See Also

• Japanese music
• Traditional Japanese musical instruments
• Geisha
• Kabuki
• Bunraku