Details
I named this shamisen “Shion” (紫苑) – an unusual name for a unique instrument. “Shion” means “aster (the flower) and is associated with nostalgia – and that’s what the sound of shamisen evokes, too.
This instrument has had some adventures in its previous life. There’s shallow little dents here and there, a zagane (metal fitting that holds the tuning pegs) has been replaced, and the fingerboard shows some signs of wear (not audible). So it’s definitely an instrument that has made lots of music already! Isn’t that exciting?
The style of this shamisen is (hosozao), typically used for Nagauta, Kouta and Hauta playing style. Neck sizes vary within the building types. This shamisen has a slender neck which indicates that it’s a more vintage model with history!
Wood:
This instrument’s neck is made from koki wood – the most sought-after wood in contemporary shamisen culture.
Accessories and Skins:
The instrument comes with a pale doukake with chrysantehmum flowers and a muted orange neo. Also included in the package is a set of fresh strings, a dougomu, and a tenjin cap! The dou has natural skin on the front and a fresh hibiki synthetic skins on the back.
Neck:
This neck is 24,75 mm high/thick at the top and widens slightly towards the dou. The fingerboard is 24,5 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.
More:
The instrument’s wood has a very dark color, almost black. 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.
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.