Minyo Shamisen Set “Kyoko”

If you decide to get this instrument, you are truly lucky. This shamisen is extraordinarily beautiful to look and and superbly well crafted. If I had the time to play more and the space to store more shamisen, I would definitely keep this one. May this instrument bring you joy and let you spread your creative wings to take you on an unforgettable musical journey!

This style of shamisen is associated with Minyo style, but it really is very versatile and makes any kind of style fun to play. It's also pretty close to a futozao shamisen and will make playing Tsugaru style fun, too. As a chuuzao neck shamisen, it is a good choice for everyone who doesn't know where the shamisen journey might take him or her. The width makes it comfortable to play no matter what hand size you have, and the thickness/height of the neck makes gripping it feel super easy!

The instrument is made from beautiful shitan wood - a high-end hardwood traditionally used for shamisen. I paired the instrument with a gorgeous salmon-colored doukake with silver flying cranes and an orange neo. Also included in the package is a set of attached strings and a tenjin cap. The dou is skinned with natural skins that will wrap you in the authentic and warm sound of shamisen music. The joints are crafted in a more intricate way to make them more durable. They sit super tight and reward you with a satisfying smack when pushing the parts together.

If you don't have one lying around to use, please consider getting a washi bag to protect your shamisen’s skin from humidity.

This neck is 28mm wide and 30mm high at the top and widens slightly towards the dou. This makes the neck feel sturdy and super comfortable to play. The fingerboard ends in a sharp angle that makes playing high notes up to 20 and beyond possible.

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.

The tsukigata (the curved end of the tenjin) is in perfect condition. 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 crafted in a more intricate manner that allows for an extra durable snug fit of the joints.

The itomaki (tuning pegs) are made from ebony wood and are carved in a traditional way that makes them easy to grip despite their relatively slender built.

This instrument is a great companion and has a warm and full sound. If you have any further questions, reach out and send me a message and I'll be happy to help.

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. Depending on your personal needs, you might want to consider getting a fujaku strip to mark the positions along the neck. Alternatively, you can mark positions individually or play without any markings.

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.