Futozao/Tsugaru Shamisen Set “Sanosuke”

I named this shamisen “Sanosuke” (左之助) after a beloved character from the Manga (and anime series and movies) “Rurouni Kenshin”. Sanosuke is a character that is brave, strong and has a very good heart. He looks super cool, too. He’s a total badass and never gives up. Kenshin was the first manga series I read, and if this is your first shamisen, I hope it will get you hooked with shamisen playing as much as the manga captured the hearts of thousands of readers around the world.

The style of this shamisen is futozao, typically used for Tsugaru Shamisen playing style. It has a strong sound, sturdy build and is awesome all around. Not only is it a total looker (the neck is made from tochi koki, explained below), but the joints are crafted in an extra intricate way (alternatinv double-steps, see photos) which shows its high quality. Why the amazing price then, you ask? Just as Sano in Kenshin took a couple beatings, Sanosuke your future shamisen must have had an unfriendly encounter with a doorframe or table top: The Tenjin (head) is chipped at its very end. It does not affect the sound but is just a cosmetic detail. I chose not to restore it, because this way the sales price can be much lower. You’re welcome! Plus: this part of the shamisen is usually covered by a protective cap (to prevent such damage) and is thus invisible (cap is included!). I also refrained from polishing the fingerboard – again, just a visual thing, it plays absolutely beautifully. By not doing these cosmetic repairs, I can offer you this stunning instrument to an awesome price. If you’re looking for a pristine instrument, there’s others around that might be your type! I personally think there’s nothing wrong with having an instrument tell their story with old scars and notches 🙂

Wood:

This instrument’s neck is made from koki wood – the most sought-after wood in contemporary shamisen culture. But not only is it koki wood, it’s the especially beautifully marbled “tochi koki” – it looks like the wood is adorned with gleaming tiger stripes! That makes the instrument an extra delicious feast for the eyes. Tochi koki is without a doubt the most extravagant you can get in traditional shamisen craftsmanship. It’s the highest ideal for shamisen connoisseurs.

Accessories and Skins:

The instrument comes with a rare red leather doukake with painted flowers. The green neo picks up that botanic vibe. Also included in the package are a set of fresh strings, a tenjin cap, and a dougomu. I think the vintage doukake and neo are very fitting for its namesake character Sanosuke from Kenshin. Red for his strength and energy (and his red headband), the flowers for his kindness and inner beauty!

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 32 mm wide and 34 mm high at the top and widens slightly towards the dou. The fingerboard is 30,5 mm wide at the narrow end. 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. I left the markings on the side of the neck (see photos) from the previous owner because I think they are pretty useful. The fingerboard is heavenly smooth and lets you glide along the neck like an eagle soaring on a current of wind!

Itomaki:

The itomaki (tuning pegs) are acrylic and sport the super classic white look that creates a stunning contrast with the super dark wood and black skins.

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. There’s been a previous repair on the sawari – I guess the head joint glue gave up at some point and had to be redone causing a bit of a gap that was filled up (see photo). All is firm, smooth and well, and the bit is covered by the big string when the instrument is set up.

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. The joints are very well crafted which will provide an extra tight fit. They come together with a very satisfying “clack” – if you don’t know what that means: it’s a very good thing and you’re gonna love it!

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.