Learning to Play Shamisen: Day 2

General
#1

Since it was requested, here’s a brief—and I mean brief—video of my progress thus far:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ji42x5l7A4

Excluding the ridiculous bit at the beginning, it’s really only eight seconds or so long…

Anyway, I don’t have any formal musical training, so I’m not that great when it comes to playing instruments. My form/technique is probably pretty bad, especially for the bachi. I think I’m using my wrist too much to strike the ito. Oh well… Hopefully, I’ll improve with more instruction and practice!

#2

Hey Austin!

Looking good! I agree with you on using your wrist too much, and it’s quite hard to get it right in the beginning. The fact that you are aware of it will make you improve every time you pick your shamisen up and play.

Kevin Kmetz has all sorts of great tips for beginners, and one of them is to slow down and focus on each technique separately. You were playing this pretty fast and it will be easier to focus on the striking technique if you go at it at a slower tempo.

#3

Hey Austin! Excellent for your second day! Formal training isn’t necessary to become skilled at it. Whether formally trained or self-taught, both require the time investment for the body/mind to become familiarized with the instrument, in my opinion. :slight_smile: The most important thing is to just have fun, and that will help you advance quickly (and enjoy the ride).

So good stuff! Looking forward to hearing how you sound 6 days from now! :smiley:

© 2020 Kyle Abbott