Hosozao Shamisen Set “Hagumi”

I named this shamisen “Hagumi” (育実) after one of the main characters in the Manga/Anime “Honey and Clover”. This shamisen reminds me of the tenderness and beauty of that character, so I came up with that name. I hope you will develop a close bond with Hagumi and bring out her beauty!

The style of this shamisen is (hosozao), typically used for Nagauta, Kouta and Hauta playing style. Neck sizes vary within the building types, and this one is not too slender and comfortable to play.

Wood: The instrument is made from karin wood – an established choice for beginner instruments.

Accessories: The instrument comes with a silver-pink doukake  and a matching pink neo. The doukake shows some signs of use (see photos). Also included in the package is a set of fresh strings, and a tenjin cap. The dou is skinned with hibiki synthetic skin on the front and natural skin on the back.

Neck size:  This neck is 26,5 mm wide and 26 mm high/thick at the top and widens slightly towards the dou. The fingerboard is 26,5 mm wide at the narrow end. The elegantly slanted hatomune – the part where the neck enters the sound box – is typical for hosozao shamisen associated with Nagauta style. You can play up to position 19 with this kind of neck.

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.

Other: The tsukigata (the curved end of the tenjin) is in perfect condition, and the instrument’s wood has a beautiful reddish 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.

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

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. I also recommend getting an adhesive dougomu or a hizagomu that will prevent the instrument from slipping off your thigh.

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.