Hey all,
For the past 4 years, I was working as an English teacher in Japan. I was lucky enough to learn how to play the shamisen from a teacher for 3 of those years. Now, I’m back in Canada and eager to continue practicing. I’m so glad I came across this site! There’s tons of useful information, and everyone seems really friendly. Just wanted to say a quick “hello” and introduce myself.
Matt
PS: Sorry for my newbness, but is there a search function for the “Forum & Community”?
Thanks!
wassup dooooog!! Super stoked to have you on here and I’m personally really excited to read that youve already been playing for a few years. If you have any questions or something you’d like to discuss please feel more than welcome to contact me/us!
Welcome back, Matt. How’s the culture shock? 
I don’t know of any teachers in the Ottawa area, but there are three shamisen teachers in Toronto (jiuta and min’you/Tsugaru), two of whom are in this forum. So shout if you want names.
P.S. No search function yet, I hope Kyle will put one in in the future…
Sorry for the slow reply, but thanks for the welcome.
Grant- Do you know any sites, Japanese or other, that sell tablature or notation for tsugaru music? I have a few books, but I’m specifically looking for some of my favourite artists, like Agatsuma. Any help would be appreciated!
Linda- Culutre shock is getting better! Can’t get any good ramen though… Could you give me some info on the Tsugaru teacher in Toronto, please? Ottawa is a 5 hour drive away, but it’s worth it for some guidance.
Thanks!
One of the Tsugaru teachers here is Aki Takahashi (she’s also the co-creative director of the Nagata Shachu taiko group and leader of the neo-Japanese folk group, TenTen Canada). You can find her thru her website, www.tentencanada.com. The other person who teaches is Gerry McGoldrick - he’s here in the forum, you can find him in the member directory.
(And you might be able to find some ramen while you’re in Toronto, too - www.kenzoramen.ca. No promises, as to whether it’s up to your standards, tho’… )
Hi Matt,
Just to let you know, I’d be happy to teach you now and again if you make the trip to Toronto. I studied shamisen in Japan for most of the 90s and have been teaching in Toronto since I got back in 2001.
Even if you aren’t interested in lessons, drop me a line if you like – there aren’t many of us in Canada, so it’s always nice to hear from another player.
OH yeah! I would definately recommend getting in touch with mr. Gerry McGoldrick! I miss that guy! Gerry if you are reasing this…
Happy New Year man! Keep in touch!