Bright Path（ＡＬＴのエッセイ）

Shamisen

投稿日時: 2019/10/07 m1
    One of the many aspects of Japanese culture that I always wanted to try out was playing the Shamisen. I’ve been playing the guitar since I was nine years old – so about 15 years. I taught myself to play, so my technique is very poor, but I’ve always put having fun before being a perfect musician! I really like the similarities between the two long-necked stringed instruments, but I also like the stark contrast between the two instruments’ sounds and styles.


 
    I finally found a friend who knew a Shamisen 先生. One Wednesday, after work, I travelled to Kanazawa, to try this beautiful Japanese instrument.

 

    Initially, it was surprisingly tricky. The Bachi is very unusual compared to a guitar pick, and I felt very clumsy trying to remember how to position my hand and wrist. However, eventually it started to feel more familiar, and I began to get the hang of it.

I’m really looking forward to studying this beautiful instrument, and the rich musical culture behind it. If I have a performance someday, please come along and watch!

- Jacob