Hosozao Shamisen Set “Aya”

  • hosozao shamisen (sao width: 24mm)
  • made from shitan wood
  • natural back and front skins

also included in the set:

  • neo
  • doukake
  • tenjin cap
  • strings

435,00 

Out of stock

Details

If you have small hands, this shamisen might be the right companion for you! The style of this shamisen is (hosozao), typically used for Nagauta, Kouta and Hauta playing style.

The instrument is made from shitan wood – a high-class hardwood traditionally used for shamisen. The instrument comes with a beautiful red neo and an elegant silver doukake embellished with a purple flower. Also included in the package is a set of attached strings. The dou is skinned with natural skins that will wrap you in the authentic and warm sound of shamisen music.

If you don’t have one lying around to use, please consider getting a washi bag to protect your shamisen’s skin from humidity.

This neck is 24mm wide at the top and widens slightly towards the dou. It has an elegantly slanted hatomune – the part where the neck enters the sound box – which is typical for hosozao shamisen associated with Nagauta style.

The tsukigata (the curved end of the tenjin) has a little imperfection that will usually be hidden under the tenjin protection cap that comes with the instrument. The instrument’s wood has a beautiful deep chocolate brown shade. 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 crafted in a more intricate manner that allows for an extra durable snug fit of the joints.

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.

Take a closer look at the beautiful gold-coloured zagane (metal fittings that hold the tuning pegs)! They are crafted in the traditional way to make them look like stylized flowers. The extra care that Japanese craftsmen put into details like that make me fall in love with Japanese art over and over again.

This instrument is a feast for the eyes and ears alike. 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. Depending on your personal needs, you might want to consider getting a fujaku strip to mark the positions along the neck. Alternatively, you can mark positions individually or play without any markings.

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.