Futozao/Tsugaru Shamisen Set “Kagutsuchi”

The fierce fire within inspired me to name this shamisen “Kagutsuchi” (迦具土), after the ancient god of flame. The fiery doukake underlines the instrument’s character perfectly. Its sound burns bright and strong — perfect for passionate performers who want their music to set hearts ablaze.

The instrument is in very good condition – it shall make you happy for many, many years to come.

The style of this shamisen is Futozao, typically used for Tsugaru and modern styles.

Wood:

The instrument’s neck is made from shitan wood – a traditional high-end hardwood for shamisen making. It was the #1 wood for shamisen building before koki wood’s deep dark sheen and crazy figurations emerged in the last decades. This means even when you advance as a player, this instrument will still sound great and never sound like “not enough”. In my personal opinion, shitan wood sounds livelier and more multi-faceted than koki. It’s personal preference, what you think is best.

Accessories and Skins:

The instrument comes with a red tsugaru lacquer doukake and a matching vibrant red neo (string holder). Also included in the package are a set of fresh strings, a tenjin cap, and a dougomu.

The dou is skinned with Hibiki on the front side – the newest generation of synthetic skins with a warm tone that’s closer to the sound of natural skins than any of its predecessors. The back side is skinned with natural skin.

Hibiki skin is extremely durable and robust. In comparison to natural skin, you don’t have to worry about humidity or sudden rain when playing the shamisen outdoors (you’ll still want to try to avoid both to protect the wood though). The back skin always has lower tension than the front skin which makes it very durable. It’s your choice wether you want to use a washi bag for extra protection.

Neck:

The neck is 33 mm wide and 34 mm high at the top and widens slightly towards the dou. The fingerboard is 30,5 mm wide at the narrow end. Its hatomune – the part where the neck enters the sound box – ends in a sharp edge that makes it possible to play up to position 20 and slightly beyond on this instrument. The fingerboard is heavenly smooth and lets you glide along the neck like an eagle soaring on a current of wind!

Itomaki:

The itomaki (tuning pegs) are made from ebony wood and are carved in a traditional way that makes them easy to grip despite their slender built.

Sawari (buzz):

The installed azuma sawari lets you adjust the sawari (buzz) to your liking. It’s made from zoge, which is not only special but also a very nice contrast to the dark wood and a subtle eyecatcher. The material is much more durable than the usual wooden variant and won’t show wear for a long, long time. You can switch the buzz off completely (for modern pieces, pop/rock/metal genres or certain ensembles) and also have the perfect buzz no matter how high or low you tune your shamisen.

More:

The tsukigata (the curved end of the tenjin) is a little matte from being covered by the tenjin cap. The instrument’s wood has a beautiful dark shade and beautiful grain. The neck is crafted in mitsuori style: It can be separated into three parts. This makes travelling with the shamisen very easy – even if you have to get by with light and small luggage. The joints are very well crafted which will provide an extra tight fit.

All you need to add to your set to start playing are a koma, a bachi and a yubisuri. Depending on the style you intend to play and your personal preferences, you want to pick a certain kind of koma and bachi. Yubisuri come in different sizes, and I didn’t want to deprive you of the difficult yet fun choice between all the wonderful colors.

If you need help with picking the right additions to this set, don’t hesitate to send a message and we will find the perfect match for you together.

If you have any further questions, reach out and send me a message and I’ll be happy to help.