Tsugaru Shamisen Set “Ichigo”

Ichigo’s sound is as fresh and sweet as a summer morning! It’s a beginner futozao shamisen (wide neck) that is super comfortable to play. I am a huge fan of its sound – full, strong, and well-rounded. It’s a super solid choice if you’re starting out with Tsugaru style and are looking for the authentic sound and feel of Tsugaru Shamisen.

The instrument is made from karin wood – an established choice for beginner instruments. The instrument comes with a green leather doukake and a red neo – thus the name 🙂  Also included in the package are a set of attached strings, a tenjin cap, a dougomu and a bachigawa (skin protector). The dou is skinned with natural skin on the front and has a wooden back (which could be changed back to natural skin, but this really is a lot more long lasting and provides the oomph of a tight skin for much longer. The wood is in perfect condition and makes you want to play the instrument every day!

This neck is 29 mm wide and 31 mm high at the top and widens slightly towards the dou. This is my personal width of choice because I don’t have enormous hands. It’s a great size for any hand size, and I would be genuinely surprised if you won’t enjoy playing this shamisen. 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 ebio (the curved end of the tenjin) is in perfect condition. The neck is crafted in mitsuori style: It can be separated into three pieces and makes travelling with the instrument super easy even if you have to travel with small luggage. The joints are very well crafted and have a very tight fit.

The itomaki (tuning pegs) are made from ebony wood and are very comfortable to use due to their sturdy build.

All you need to add to your set to start playing are a koma, a bachi and a yubisuri. Yubisuri come in different sizes and colors, so you can either match your shamisen’s look or have a colorfur contrasting highlight. There’s a variety of different koma and bachi you can choose from in the shop.

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.