A shamisen is a Japanese stringed instrument that resembles a banjo in sound. Shamisens have been used in Japanese music since the 17th century, and they are frequently heard in traditional Japanese music. Shamisens are now commonly heard at arts and culture festivals, musical performances, theatre and dance performances, and other traditional Japanese venues, as well as in modern compositions that make use of the shamisen’s and other traditional Japanese instruments’ distinct sounds to create a distinct feel.
The shamisen has ancient origins. The Egyptians created an instrument that was very similar to the shamisen in form and style, and this instrument undoubtedly spread to the Middle East, eventually spreading across Asia. Although the shamisen is thought to be descended from Chinese instruments, the Japanese have created their own unique interpretation of this ancient stringed instrument. There are also a variety of Japanese shamisen styles, each with its own sound and musical accompaniment.
A shamisen is made up of two main parts: a rectangular body that looks like a drum and a long hollow neck. Three strings run up the body and down the neck, and musicians play the shamisen with a plectrum that is traditionally made of ivory. The shamisen’s body is covered in a hide skin, though paper and plastics are occasionally used, and the strings are traditionally made of silk, though nylon is also acceptable.
The shamisen can be played in a variety of ways. Shamisens can be performed solo or in groups, and they can be accompanied by singing and dancing. They’re also popular in kabuki, a type of Japanese theater, and they’re sometimes used in ensemble compositions. Many people associate the shamisen with geisha culture, as these well-known Japanese entertainers have frequently played the shamisen for their visitors.
You might be able to hear a shamisen performance if you live in an area with a large Japanese population. Shamisen players also travel to different parts of the country for cultural festivals and solo performances. If you want to learn to play this instrument, your best bet is to go to a musical instrument store, especially if you can find one that specializes in Asian instruments. If an instructor in your area is available, the staff at such a store can assist you in finding one, as well as provide you with an instrument to play.