I simulated Shamisen on Sanshin

Playing/Techniques
#1

I must warn you, I’m horrible with camera work, talking while on camera and I’m only a mere beginner. I’m trying my best and there are a lot of mistakes. Also, I’m only 15

So basically I found a way to simulate Shamisen on the Sanshin. I reccomend doing this only on wooden Sanshin, because it’s more durable. I basically made my own Bachi out of 3 microscope slides, and tuned my Sanshin to C-G-C. The bachi isn’t perfect, but it’ll do for now. It’s kind of like a Heike Shamisen Bachi. I also marked the positions using my tuner. I noticed that the Sanshin sounds like a mix between Tsugaru Shamisen and Jiuta Shamisen. My strings are kind of low since my bridge broke on both sides and I have nothing else except a really low bridge to use and my ma won’t buy me a new one XD.

I have a video demonstrating it, but it’s horrible so I made it private so only people who click this link can see it. Once I get better at it and get an HD camera, I will make a better demonstration.

Anyways, tell me your thoughts. Do you think simulating Shamisen with a wooden Sanshin is good for those who can’t afford Shamisen? Or do you have a better alternative for those who don’t have a lot of money? I want to hear from you :slight_smile:

Here’s the video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=_CD86z4ksn0

#2

When I was waiting for my shamisen I tuned my electrical guitar so that I could play with the same string offsets. You can then start to practice the fingering for different pieces like Kuroishi Yosare Bushi and then you can more quickly play it on a real shamisen when you get it. I know it might be hard to get money at your age but still I have to say that it will be better to get an entry level shamisen directly. You’re about the age where you can start working during summers and earn some money if your parents won’t pay for it. I’m afraid that, or really begging them for money are your only options! It’s part of life for most of us that aren’t Paris Hilton.

© 2020 Kyle Abbott