Minyo Beginner Shamisen Set “Himawari”

I named this shamisen “Himawari” (向日葵 ) – that means “sunflower”. Not just because of the yellow doukake, but also because it radiates warmth and comfort!

The instrument is in very good condition – apart from a small nick on the side of the sound box (see photos). When you’re playing, you can’t see it. Nobody can. It’s practically not there 🙂 But there’s a discount for that nevertheless!

A truly beautiful shamisen with a medium-sized neck (chuuzao), typically used for Minyou playing style. Thanks to the adjustable azuma sawari, this shamisen can have its delightful buzz no matter how high or low you tune your instrument.

Wood:

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

Accessories and Skins:

The instrument comes with an optimistic yellow doukake (body cover) and a contrasting purple 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 – the newest generation of synthetic skins with a warm tone that’s closer to the sound of natural skins than any of its predecessors.

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). This means, you won’t need to use a washi bag to protect your shamisen’s skin.

Neck:

This neck is 28,5 mm wide and 29,75 mm high at the top and widens slightly towards the dou. The fingerboard is 27 mm wide at the narrow end. The fingerboard ends in a sharp edge that makes it possible to play up to position 20 and slightly beyond on this instrument. The fingerboard is in freshly replaned.

Itomaki:

The itomaki (tuning pegs) are made from ebony wood and have a very balanced size that makes tuning comfortable and easy.

Sawari (buzz):

The installed azuma sawari lets you adjust the sawari (buzz) to your liking. This means you can switch it 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 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.

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.

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