Learn Shamisen

*NEW* Let’s Learn Minyo | Tanko Bushi -- 民謡を知ろう｜炭坑節

Tanko Bushi originates as a work song sung by coal miners at the Miike Coal Mine, which stretched across Fukuoka prefecture and Kumamoto prefecture in Kyushu.
In the early Showa period, it was arranged into a folk song, and today it is one of the classic songs for Bon Odori.

The dance is simple to pick up, so try learning them and dance along at a Bon festival!

Reference video:
2025-11-14 12:00:03 +0000 UTC View Post

*NEW* Christmas Songs | Roundup -- クリスマスソング｜まとめ

In this video, we have put together all the Christmas songs we have covered in past lessons. Why not start practicing now and try playing them for Christmas? Enjoy your practice!

Video featured in this lesson:

Jungle Bells 1 - Standard Version
https://www.patreon.com/posts/cover-song-bells-58991140

Jingle Bells 2 - Jazz Style
2025-11-07 12:00:08 +0000 UTC View Post

*NEW* Original Song | Gentenkaiki Practice Video -- オリジナル曲 | 原点回輝 練習用

Thanks for practicing Gentenkaiki with us!
This video includes two full-length play-along videos—one for the main part you practiced, and one for the other part. First, make sure you can play your part all the way through. The tuning is Niagari of C. Then try playing along with the other part and see if you can stay in sync!

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原点回輝のお稽古お疲れ様でした。

今回の動画では練習用として皆さんが練習したメインパー�...

*NEW* Ear Training Quiz | Honchoshi Edition -- 耳コピクイズ | 本調子編

This time, we picked phrases from Minyo (folk songs) played in Honchoshi tuning for your ear training challenge!

You may be more used to Niagari, so the Tsubo positions might feel a bit different.
It might be tricky, but give it a try and challenge yourself!

We have shared more about the importance of copying by ear in this post — check it out!
https://www.patreon.com/posts/96960770

▼ 2025-10-10 12:00:05 +0000 UTC View Post

*NEW* 2025 Learn Shamisen TAIKAI | START! -- 大会2025｜募集

We are excited to announce that entries for ‘2025 Learn Shamisen TAIKAI’ are now open!
This is a great chance to showcase everything you have been working on.
Just like last year, submit your performance by video.

Top entries will receive special prizes, so keep practicing and do not miss out!

Details about the eligible songs can be found here:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/new...

*NEW* Competition 2025 | Announcement -- 大会 2025｜お知らせ

The entry period for the 2025 Shamisen competition is STARTING SOON!
This time, we have prepared 2 divisions. The performer’s choice division is beginner-friendly, so if you have been thinking about joining, this is your chance! Enjoy choosing your song and have fun practicing.

Division

1. Tsugaru Jongara Bushi Kyokubiki Division
Please re-watch our Kyokubiki lessons on Learn Shamisen — you might find tips that Ki&Ki themselves care ...

Original Song | Gentenkaiki Part 5 -- オリジナル曲 | 原点回輝 パート5

This is a lesson for Gentenkaiki, an original song by Ki&Ki.
We will go from the call-and-response section to the very end of the song.
In this part, it is not only the notes you play that matter—being able to wait and rest at the right time is also important. Be careful not to come in early.
Once you can play to the end, try playing from the beginning all the way through.

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今回の動画は輝&輝のオリジナル曲「原点回輝」のお...

Basics | Left-hand Form -- 基礎レッスン | 左手の手の形

This video breaks down the key points of left-hand positioning in Tsugaru Shamisen. Clean finger form is essential for smooth, detailed technique. Let’s watch and follow along to see exactly what to focus on and how to shape your hand. Great for beginners and also for players who want to improve left-hand movement.

We also cover itomichi in a separate video — check the link and watch both together!
2025-09-05 12:00:04 +0000 UTC View Post

Take Your Shamisen on the Road -- 三味線と旅に出よう

Ever wondered how we travel long distances with such a large instrument?
We Break it!! On Purpose!!
Today, we are talking about the multi-piece Shamisen. Some Tsugaru Shamisen can actually be disassembled into 3 parts!

With a multi-part Shamisen and the right case, you can bring it as carry-on luggage on trains and planes. This helps avoid the risk of damage that often happens when instruments are checked in. We strongly recommend carrying it with you instead of checking it.

Original Song | Gentenkaiki Part 4 -- オリジナル曲 | 原点回輝 パート4

This is a lesson for Gentenkaiki, an original song by Ki&Ki.
In this video, we will focus on one of the most technically advanced phrases in the song.
You will find many detailed techniques here—please take your time and start slow.
If it feels too difficult, try leaving out some of the Hajiki or Sukui at first, and gradually add them as you get more comfortable.

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今回の動画は輝&輝のオリジナル曲「原点回輝」のお稽古で�...

Traditional Japanese Song | Nebuta-bayashi -- 日本の曲 | ねぶた囃子

Let’s try playing Nebuta-bayashi on the Shamisen — the music performed during the Nebuta Festival. Originally played on the flute, this is the Shamisen arrangement of that melody. It is made up of seven similar phrases that are repeated throughout the piece. Because the same techniques come up again and again, it is also a great finger workout. Beginners are absolutely welcome to give it a try!

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今回は「ねぶた祭」で演奏されるねぶた�...

Original Song | Gentenkaiki Part 3 -- オリジナル曲 | 原点回輝 パート3

This is a lesson for Gentenkaiki, an original song by Ki&Ki. We will cover the middle section, which includes a variety of techniques. There are intricate phrases using Uchi, and the section where you keep the tempo and rhythm on the 3rd string while playing phrases on the 1st string. It may be a little challenging, but please take your time and practice slowly with a steady tempo.

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今回の動画は輝&輝のオリジナル曲「原点回輝」のお稽古...

Aomori Nebuta Festival -- ねぶた祭

Have you heard of the Nebuta Festival in Aomori?

Held every August, this incredible celebration fills the streets with towering illuminated floats (Nebuta), vibrant music from drums, flutes, and hand-held cymbals (Chappa/Teburigane), and energetic dancers called Haneto leaping and chanting “Rassera! Rassera!” It is a true explosion of energy, color, and rhythm!

And here’s something special—Aomori, the home of the Nebuta Festival, is also the birthplace of the Tsugaru Shami...

Original Song | Gentenkaiki Part 2 -- オリジナル曲 | 原点回輝 パート2

This is a lesson for Gentenkaiki, an original song by Ki&Ki. We will mainly cover the phrases leading up to Tsurutere, using positions of Tsubo 3 and 4. Being aware of where Bachizuke begins will help bring more dynamics to your performance. Also, as you repeat the Tsurutere section, try to imagine the other part and pay attention to the contrast in volume and intensity.

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今回の動画は輝&輝のオリジナル曲「原点回輝」のお稽古です...

Original Song | Gentenkaiki Part 1 -- オリジナル曲 | 原点回輝 パート1

This is a lesson for Gentenkaiki, an original song by Ki&Ki. We will cover the very beginning of the song—from Otoawase (tuning) to the phrases on the 1st string. This is an important section that sets the tone for the whole song. As you practice, pay close attention to the first Bachizuke and the number of times you play the 1st string.

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今回の動画は輝&輝のオリジナル曲「原点回輝」のお稽古です。
この動画では最初の音�...

Back to Basics -- 初心に戻って

Hey everyone!
Let’s take a moment to revisit how we care for our Shamisen after practice.

When you open your Shamisen case, is everything neatly stored?
Are Itomaki (tuning peg) poking out of the Nagabukuro (fabric bag), or are there marks from sweaty hands after practice?

After each session, be sure to wipe down Sao (neck) and strings with a cloth to remove any moisture or fingerprints. Humidity is the enemy of Tsugaru Shamisen, so try to keep your case as dry as possible...

Copying By Ear | Beginner Edition -- 耳コピクイズ | 初心者編

This time, we feature familiar children's songs and folk tunes from around the world!

Familiar melodies are easier to pick up by ear, so even if you have never challenged this copying by ear quiz before, give it a shot!

The quiz only covers short segments of each song, but since the same Tsubo are used throughout, you might be able to play the whole song on your own. You can do it!

We have shared more about the importance of copying by ear in this post — check it out!
...

Original Song | ‘Haretoke’ Preparation -- オリジナル曲 | ハレとケ 予習

This video introduces Haretoke, an original piece by Ki&Ki, which we will be learning in upcoming lessons. The song can be played by simply learning two basic melodies.

It is easier to have it memorized if you first get a feel for the song by listening to it, so start by giving it a listen. Please try to learn the overall structure of the song as well!

Also, 3 Minyo (folk songs) appear partway through the song. Lesson videos for all of them are already available on Learn Shami...

The Competition Is On! -- 大会開催決定！

We are excited to announce that, for the first time in two years, our Online Competition is coming back!

This time, we would love to have as many of you join as possible — so in addition to the assigned piece, we’re also planning to add a free-choice section.
Start practicing your favorite piece so you’ll be ready to perform it with confidence!

More details will be shared soon, but now’s a great time to start getting ready!

Ki&Ki

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Original Song | Gentenkaiki Preparation -- オリジナル曲 | 原点回輝 予習

Before officially starting lessons on Gentenkaiki, let’s begin by studying these 2 lessons. They will help you learn to play part of the piece in advance.

You might also find some helpful tips for playing the key phrases smoothly, so be sure to watch them ahead of time.

The Sukui lesson is especially recommended for beginners.

Basics | Sukui
https://www.patreon.com/posts/65794717

Copyin...

Practice Set: Beginner Edition -- 練習セット 初心者編

This time, we're introducing a practice video set especially for beginners!

We understand that you might want to jump right into playing songs, but until you're fully comfortable with the Shamisen, it's essential to focus on your right hand.
Let’s start by mastering the basics of right-hand technique!

Tataki Technique
2025-05-02 12:00:03 +0000 UTC View Post

Let’s Learn Minyo | Hanagasa Ondo -- 民謡を知ろう｜花笠音頭

"Hanagasa Ondo" is the song used for the parade dance at the Yamagata Hanagasa Matsuri, held annually on August 5th, 6th, and 7th in Yamagata Prefecture. It has become famous nationwide as one of the representative festivals of the Tohoku region. With its colorful costumes and cute flower hats, let’s take a deeper dive into the "Yamagata Hanagasa Matsuri" in this post.

Let’s learn Hanagasa Ondo with us from here:
2025-04-25 12:00:04 +0000 UTC View Post

Skill Boost: Bright Tsubo Practice -- 明るいツボの曲スキルアップ

Hey Everyone! To practice "Sukiyaki (Ue Wo Muite Arukou)", we would like to introduce videos that will help improve your skills when practiced together!

Practicing songs that use the same scale is recommended because it helps you stay on pitch more easily!

"Sukiyaki (Ue Wo Muite Arukou)" mainly uses bright Tsubo (major scale) like Tsubo 3# and 8. Let's check out songs that use similar Tsubo.

Funny Street

Full Play Through: 2025-04-11 12:00:08 +0000 UTC View Post

Cover Song | Sukiyaki (Ue Wo Muite Arukou) -- カバー曲 |上を向いて歩こう

In this video, we’ll be practicing the globally renowned Japanese song, "Ue Wo Muite Arukou" (“Sukiyaki”). This catchy tune is easy to play, even for beginners.
We’d be thrilled if many of you give it a try and enjoy performing it!

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今回の動画では、世界的にも有名な日本の曲「上を向いて歩こう」のお稽古です。キャッチーで初心者の方でも演奏しやすい一曲です。
ぜひたく�...

Practice Set: Advanced Level -- 練習セット 上級編

Hey everyone! How is your Shamisen practice progressing?

Previously, Learn Shamisen shared recommended videos for reaching the intermediate level. Now, it’s time to take the next step!

If you can master these three videos, you’ll officially be an advanced Tsugaru Shamisen player! Let’s dive into advanced techniques and recommended songs to challenge yourself.

[Basic Technique]

Skill Improvement | Suri on the 1st String 2025-03-21 12:00:07 +0000 UTC View Post