The TRUTH About The Japanese Shamisen | Wish I Knew Sooner…

[@TokyoLens]

Thank you all SO MUCH for all the love on the Shamisen content! It's such a big part of why I am here, and I'm so happy I could do this video today!! EVERYTHING from affordable shamisen, to lessons, videos, music, and more are linked in the description!! **EXTRA LOVE For That Notification Squad!!** Hope your day is beautiful and I will see you all again... Real Soon!!

[@Ionut87]

It's always nice to see someone getting to do something they're really passionate about, it brightens my day.

[@FailureManagement]

Congratulations on 500k

[@astroboy3507]

Better late than never Norm!!!! 😬

[@WillCrawford0]

こちらこそ！ありがとうございます。三味線の映画は期待していました。

[@MrNajibrazak]

saw your shamisen posture. first thing that came to mine was System of a Down. Am curious if you can play any metal song on a Shamisen?

[@untitled9229]

"For any of you who tune in for the shamisen content" These are my favourite videos! I've been wanting to learn shamisen for about 2 years now but I haven't gotten the opportunity between learning Japanese, photography, and being poor. I got a chance to play with one (as well as a koto) last year for about half an hour and I loved it. Although I have to say I was much better with the koto, maybe my heart is in the wrong place...

[@TokyoLens]

That’s amazing! Honestly means the world to me when somebody else has even a slightly similar love for this instrument I hope you are graced with many more opportunities!!

[@danielthompson6207]

As a banjo player, I feel the pain of frequent tuning. I'm convinced at this point that banjos actively hate being in tune for longer than a few tunes.

[@The_Gallowglass]

Every time you pluck a string you're giving a shot of moonshine to the banjo.

[@levistokes3960]

Dude I feel this. Im actually considering learning shamisen too. Why do I always pick things that are difficult. 😂

[@aleedulcimer]

I will never complain about my 76 string hammered dulcimer again. It's also super sensitive to humidity, but at least I can leave it out so that I can come and go from playing when I want. HUGE respect for you as a shamisen player.

[@Rajivrocks-Ltd.]

I am a pianist and I've been playing for well over a decade and I just wanted to say that I love the passion. Meeting other musicians with the same kind of passion for an instrument is amazing. Also, playing any piece perfectly on any instrument is impossible. You strive for perfection, but you'll never get there.

[@2222harrys]

This video can actually be applied to a lot of string instruments. Not only that but you have really touched upon what it means to practice and to actually learn and improve a piece. It actually takes work to be a musician and to have a good way to phrase and play the music.

[@YeohosuaSenpai]

Can confirm. I worked at Avex Trax for 2 years and I loathed any time I had to record a shamisen artist. It's not because they were jerks or anything, but because each artist is quite peculiar about the sound of the instrument or the performance they were putting to tape. One track could easily take a week, or possibly up to three weeks, depending on the artist. I would regularly wake up from dreams, because I head the same song in my dream over and over again. Quite haunting and beautiful at the same time.

[@Sin-1]

I'm so happy that Shamisen is getting more recognized, it's a very nice sounding instrument!

[@mandapanda7407]

One of my absolute favorite instruments to listen to. Hats off to all of you fabulous musicians who have been traveling that shamisen journey! 🙏❤️

[@yookalaylee2289]

I like how you started off explaining that the Shamisen has a useful lifespan. I tune, rebuild, and sell pianos. They also have a useful life span, although its much longer than the Shamisen. About 40-50 years before needing major rebuilding such as new strings, action parts, and hammers. Something interesting that Yamaha does to their pianos is controlling the moisture content of the wood based of the pianos ultimate delivery destination. A piano destined for Australia will have a different moisture content for one destined for the United States. This goes a long way in ensuring the longevity of the instrument and helps with tuning stability.

[@michaelryan1767]

Thats really cool to know, I sort of just assumed they lasted basically forever. Thank you for sharing :)

[@yookalaylee2289]

@@michaelryan1767 it’s a common assumption! Pianos are made of organic materials like wood and felt. Depending on the piano, there is anywhere between 15 to 25 tons of pressure the steel strings are pressing downwards onto the curved soundboard. Eventually the soundboard loses that battle and the piano can no longer produce a strong tone.

[@CineSoar]

In the late 80's, I took part in a theatrical production of The Emperor's New Clothes, in Kabuki theater style. In a time before the internet, I had to research and build a Shamisen from a handful of encyclopedia photos and then develop an ear for the style, well enough to improvise atmospheric and occasionally, featured music through much of the show. The instrument turned out really well, considering I guessed on things like using the goatskin from a tambourine, and a mix of banjo and classical guitar strings. But, the best moment was when the American College Theater Festival judge asked how long I had been playing the instrument, and was shocked to hear that I learned it for the production, and had to build it, before I could begin practicing what I had only been able to listen to on cassettes the director had compiled for me.

[@thecatladytm7172]

Woah that is awesome!!

[@yobrojoost9497]

Wow, that's dedication! Well done!

[@optiTHOMAS]

Wow! Insane! Good stuff! 😅😎👍🏻

[@ashsasaki]

I’m so glad for the info in this video. As I’ve wanted a shamisen for many years. I appreciate your knowledge on the instrument. Keep it up norm.

[@michaelryan1767]

I will never own or play a shamisen, and honestly, I'm not even the biggest fan of how they sound. But I absolutely love your videos on them, I love seeing how they're made, the culture behind them, how intricate they are to play and learn, and more than anything, I love seeing your love and enthusiasm for the instrument.

[@fungi6568]

I bought a beginner shamisen last year. I've been playing bass guitar for over 20 years up to this point. The shamisen really opened up new technique ideas for my bass playing and really gave me a much more natural feel for stringed pluck instruments.

[@moolikeachicken]

This is SO informative! My husband just starting learning to play the Chinese instrument called the Erhu, and I was thinking of suggesting to try a Japanese instrument next (and I'm partial to the sound of the shamisen). Now I feel a bit more prepared to jump in, so thank you so much!

[@TokyoLens]

Glad I could help a bit!!

[@shinigamiwolfen]

Congrats again on 500k. I absolutely love the sound of shamisen but I think I'll stick with guitar for affordability reasons. On the other hand, I think this probably means pretty much all of the shamisen players you see must be incredibly dedicated to their art and love it.

[@TokyoLens]

Thanks so much eh!!!

[@thadeaquintmaus3763]

You are spreading so much love, joy and passion. It's a huge pleasure to watch your videos, learn so many new things about Japan and about you. Thanks and warm hugs! Your passion adds so much quality time to my life. ♥

[@JohnAldenDavis]

A dear friend of mine introduced me to the music of the Yoshida Brothers back in 2010/2011. I was highly intrigued by the unique sounds I heard, and even tried to get other people to check it out. I’m so thankful I came upon one of your shamisen videos where you talked about your personal journey, mentioning your apprenticeship under the Yoshida Brothers! Your content is something I look forward to every time I see a new upload, it’s very indicative of how you approach the shamisen!

[@FraserFir]

I've wanted to play this amazing instrument for a while and this video has shown me the level of responsibility it takes. It does seem like a "high maintenance" instrument but I feel like the level of respect for the instrument and music is a beautiful thing. You're also very passionate about your instrument and it's inspiring, thank you!

[@rysiekkolanko2324]

Thanks for the informative video! It's always crazy how much the costs can build for musical instruments, though the shamisen is on a whole different level! That care and maintenance is insane! We admire your dedication to the craft.

[@TokyoLens]

Thanks so much eh!!

[@gutzart]

Thank you for making such informative stuff about shamisen and providing reliable resources! I actually originally found you because I was starting my shamisen journey. Now about two years later I think I have everything I need to actually get started this year

[@EllaThistleberry]

Thank you so much for this video. I learnt so much about the Shamisen. I almost cried at the end seeing how passionate you are about playing this beautiful instrument.

[@Shanyandao]

Always loving the shamisen content! I knew they can be very expensive, but i wasnt aware of how „fragile“ and high-maintenance it is! So fascinating. Also i couldnt stop staring at your t-shirt, i love it so much!

[@monkey20k]

I have been saving money to purchase the KIKI x Beginner Shamisen Set and hope to get it soon. Thank you for making not only this content but the work you do with making lessons for people to learn from.

[@YvetteTeffy]

I got introduced to the shamisen through an anime. Really loved the sound of the shamisen( and the anime ofcourse ). When researching came across your shamisen videos, got discouraged about the prices/care of the instrument. I have never played an instrument before. But seeing how enthusiastic you are, really makes me want to buy one.

[@sanashi27]

I might not be interested in playing the shamisen (or any instrument) but I enjoy listening to people talk about stuff they're passionate about. This might just be a video giving tips but it's obvious how much you love shamisen and it makes me happy hearing you talk about it.

[@gladlystorm]

Got to learn about the Shamisen through an online lecture on different performative art forms in Japan (Bunraku and Nō theater). My professor also played the Shamisen and was so happy when he was talking about it. It is definitely one of the most interesting lectures i've had. I love your dedication for the Shamisen and look forward to more videos on it

[@nemesisfcl]

I love the passion, it is so captivating to see someone with such love for something explain the details of what they enjoy.

[@DudeOnASkateboard]

It's really cool that you made a video to give new prospects a heads up about the pros and cons of shamisen. It's helpful to know that your pocketbook could become a casualty of repair expenses, BEFORE you decide to purchase an expensive instrument. However, if you have the money, it's a very rewarding instrument to master.

[@seandavie3672]

Very interesting Norm. Your dedication and discipline is impressive. I knew very little about the instrument and its demands from its owner. Its awesome that you have reached the standards you have.

[@cutez0r]

Before watching this video, I didn't even know the instrument. Now I'm impressed and fascinated. It's great to see such joy from sharing your passion with others. Keep on rocking the Shamisen!

[@drummerlad971]

Wow! I’m quite surprised at all the little things that go into playing and taking care of Shamisen! Very informative

[@grizoh4270]

Playing an instrument is so cool, especially when it's the shamisen it sounds amazing and it's so unique. It just makes me want to try it out as well 😅

[@lmsaltest]

Thanks for the video! My 6 year old daughter and I are interested in learning the shamisen, as there’s so much beautiful, soulful and fun music we’ve heard. I’m a little intimidated by the potential cost and the amount of time and effort.

[@uss_liberty_incident]

I'm only interested in shamisen insofar as listening to them, but the amount of work required to maintain one is insane! Thanks for making this, Norm.

[@evediby2183]

Truly appreciate the videos you play the shamisen! I always feel so relaxed while watching!

[@yasao_art]

While I don't plan on learning to play this incredible instrument, I've always loved the sound of it and loved every minute of this video. I gained a whole new appreciation for the shamisen. I especially loved the part about never being able to play perfectly, it reminds me a lot of what I do: painting. I know I'll never be perfect in what I do, the watercolors have a mind of their own after all, but I strive for perfection with every painting. So I can really, really relate to what you said :)

[@kaile5050]

Your enthusiasm for this instrument & music is Infectious, if shamisen is on the rise You have to be the reason 🌸

[@justoneviolinist4953]

The Japanese Shamisen gives me so much nostalgia and I have no idea why. Feels like home from a previous life. I love the sound and the atmosphere listening to Shamisen sitting in nature and feeling the wind and sun. Love the Shamisen content!

[@bork0992]

I knew the Shamisen was complex, but I didn't understand how complex. Great insight into all the care and love this instrument requires!

[@veezerrscharnhorst]

Your stand and journey is one of a kind Norm, so glad you showed us most of your journey. Keep it going!

[@TokyoLens]

Thank you so much for that~

[@joshuamstark]

I do love the shamisen content and enjoy watching your enthusiasm with it. Also the pop up video style is pretty cool too!

[@japanrulz87]

Great video. Your videos about life with Shamisen are what inspired me to get one. After many years are watching your videos on them, I finally got my first Shamisen this year. I'm so happy about it...now to begin the learning journey that you spoke about. Thank you Norm for another lovely video about this interesting instrument. We all appreciate you.

[@dattmay]

What an incredible amount of information you were able to give us all in this video. I learned SO much about an instrument I’ve never even seen in real life just from this video alone. Side note: those plush ARE adorable as heck

[@alanndra]

Such an informative video, and your love and passion for the shamisen really shines through! I love learning more about the technical aspects of playing, so this was a real treat, thank you!

[@jakeconnelly2441]

Hey Norm, a little tip for the humidity in the case: Check out Boveda humidity control packs. They work wonderfully to regulate the humidity in a closed space and keep it at an exact percentage.

[@triforcerf321]

Love the fact that you've decided to make a video about yourself and your passion, we (at least i do) want more of your life and your interests.

[@KevinSchmidt-sj2rk]

I became fascinated with the shamisen around 2017 while researching Japanese music. The more I learned about the shamisen, the more I wanted to learn how to play it. In the US there are no Shamisen Centers. The first go-to was eBay with a budget of $300, figured out there were problems with all the used ones offered for sale, and put the breaks on that idea immediately. I found Tokyo Lens researching shamisens. I spent a lot of time researching every aspect of the shamisen from importance of wood, care, and its overall fickle nature. Everything you discussed today is what I learned from doing proper research. When the time came to finally buy one, it was from an established shamisen dealer in Japan. Having researched the shamisen properly saved both of us a lot of time. It made financial sense to buy quality (Kouki) over economy.

[@Spike95]

I've never been more in love with an instrument than hearing you play it. I would love to play any instrument that is from Japan or even China but I don't know how well it would work with my nails.

[@jetsaleet]

I’m so very glad I found this video. I play and record music… and I have always wanted to infuse Erhu or Shamisen into my recordings. I have been interested in the Shamisen for a few years now… and this video absolutely informed me of things I have been curious about. I am going to save up money from my job this summer… and get a Shamisen of my own. I adore it’s sound, and the history behind it. I highly, highly appreciate this video. Thank you so much! - Austin

[@cleathercrafts]

Investing in a good instrument is so important! Not only does it just start you off hearing how it should sound, but hopefully you'll just inspired to play more as a result. I play ukuleles and the difference between a cheaply made beginner uke and a Hawaiian Koa wood ukulele is incomparable. Plus, they look awesome.

[@EJL88]

Epic! Thank you for your insight. I knew that was a tough instrument. Now I understand more about it. Plus seeing and hearing a shamisen is like no other experience. Met a shamisen player in Kyoto. She was nice enough to let us explore the instrument. Thanks again!

[@muazshams7052]

The voice of a shamisen is so unique that at some moment it felt as if you're having a conversation with it either during live or recorded performance. But that cost and care tho... It just slaps you in the face 😌

[@einfachnurleo7099]

I love how passionate you are about this... especially towards the end.

[@JoeSchmmo]

Ahhhhh yes, more Shamisen content! I have been craving this for a while

[@LellePrinter82]

KZbin recommended this video, I really love the sound of the shamisen and how it looks.

[@rajismiley8937]

Norm your Shamisen content rocks, I reckon you should take it with you for every video and thread in you playing it whether at the end middle start, whatever, there is never enough.

[@Victor-lo6dg]

Thank you so much for the information about the Shamisen! I really want to learn it and hope that I get to learn it in the future

[@kurious_kame4490]

I'm about to go to Japan on exchange tomorrow and I was definitely going to look into a way to play the shamisen, after playing the guitar, bass and a few more instruments a little bit, so I really appreciate the honest info. Doesn't deter me in any way, but I definitely know what to look for and consider much better than before, so thank you very much!

[@TokyoLens]

That’s amazing (congrats by the way) I 100% recommend trying at least a month of lessons (the ones I linked) before deciding on a shamisen or anything first! Can really help you get a better view and make a good decision!

[@emmathompson-hollis4516]

Loved the video. More shamisen please. Love to hear you playing. ❤️

[@TokyoLens]

Thank you!!

[@drphalanges1520]

Last time I changed the strings on my bass guitar, as I was stretching the lowest string, it broke right away. If a string that strong and thick can break just like that, I imagine thin shamisen strings would be even more delicate.

[@craigstiles5186]

Much respect to all that work you put in learning to play and constantly TUNING it. I just got a guitar with an Evertune bridge for recording because of the tuning stability. I couldn't imagine keeping this thing in tune.

[@KillahKei]

Notification squad!! Congrats to 500k Norm!

[@TokyoLens]

Love that squad!! Thank you!!

[@jmathijsk]

🙏❤️ amazing insight in the life with a Shamisen. Thank you for sharing your knowledge about this great instrument, or path in life!

[@Chucky_Chuck_93]

This video was very informative! I’ve always enjoyed the sound of the shamisen and wondered if I would ever try to learn myself. Definitely something to think about more. Keep up the great work on the videos! 😄

[@luci6295]

You got me with a cup of coffee on hand... Once again, perfect timing!

[@TokyoLens]

Love it’nn

[@canineh2o227]

Awww yeah baby, more shamisen content, I love these videos. I've been playing guitar for 10+ and other various stringed instruments for about half that time, I've really been itching to add a shamisen to my arsenal.

[@MentallyBread]

Playing the Shamisen is so fun. Will be something I do the rest of my life!

[@jameslong3936]

Great Shamisen deep dive! Hope your hand is healing well so you can start jamming again!

[@demented3037]

Thank you so much for the information! I was thinking of buying one. After seeing this, I know realistically i won't put the time and effort. I will continue, even more, to admire the people that do.

[@seabasstheking]

Not even going to lie, I didn’t know what a shamisen was until I started watching your videos. Thanks for introducing me to them!

[@confracto]

I found this channel and stayed for the exploring of Tokyo at night, but I enjoy this stuff too, and really do enjoy learning more about Shamisen. I'm probably never going to pick one up, but am excited to watch for people tuning them as they play now.

[@TokyoLens]

That's amazing~ Thank you so much (^-^)

[@Daria-k4b]

Norm: showing us why shamisen is amazing and making us love it Also Norm: showing us we should just listen to him playing it and not starting it🤣 Anyway we do love you playing it, so deffinetly need more video of it 💜

[@thisisnotXianYu]

when it got to the string tuning part, i can relate. i play the 中国琵琶 chinese Biwa (or Pipa in it's native language) it uses friction pegs and it's slips alot, and you have to push the pegs towards the instrument as you tune the strings to ensure it stays in it's place when done. And even though the Pipa uses steel strings, it breaks quiet often. For my case the most often to break is the 1st string because it's so thin. Usually it happens because of the humidity and temprature. it can loosen or tighten depends on how long the strings exposed to certain temprature. And if you don't tune it gently, the strings can break and you don't want it to hit your hands. I've been there before.

[@marygreene4027]

congratulations 5000000 ahhhhh well done and to many more great experiences. i feel you put so much in to this unlike others its never just thrown together it takes efort to do outdoor livestreams to other videos camping boating meeting people etc.

[@artifedex]

I *love* the shamisen, and at some point I've thought about trying it out, but when I really thought deeply about it I knew that something as particular and finicky as owning a shamisen was something that I just can't do (and thats fine!) So I've taken to exploring the world of shamisen through videos like this, and reading about and listening to the shamisen instead. I also ordered a little shamisen plushie to have for myself ☺ Thank you for always putting out videos that explore the shamisen! I really love this kind of stuff!

[@rayraysss]

Best part of the video is when he says "shamisen" His pronunciation is very pleasing to hear

[@lilb05]

Hello don’t know if you remember me but my shamisen came in today I’m so excited to get started on my journey

[@ArkyliouS]

I love this. Super interesting and I’m interested in picking up the shamisen myself. As a professional violinist that has been playing for 2.5 decades, a lot of the intensive care, constant tuning, and dedication to the instrument actually sounds pretty normal at high level musicianship for.. most instruments. Though I think a major difference is that I think violins do last forever with care. Is that why there are no 200 year old shamisen? I love the content, I’ve been binge watching all of it!

[@TokyoLens]

Awesome! Start here then: LearnShamisen.com Literally the best lessons available!

[@albertomorales7579]

Great content and very informative keep up the good work!!!

[@katcookwontcook8945]

Really good to see after hearing so much about them on the podcast!

[@frederikmani1059]

Thank you for your time and enthusiasm!

[@christopherjohnson6993]

I’m glad the shamisen is getting a lot more attention! First learned about it from you!

[@ShamiTora]

Thanks for all the info! As a new Shamisen player, it can be a little overwhelming, especially financially. When you drop potentially thousands of dollars on an instrument like this, and you can't exactly afford to completely replace it, it's good to have all the information you can to keep that instrument functioning properly for as long as possible. So thank you again for all of this.

[@CoversbyPatYam]

Happy to watch this again. This video was kinda what really introduced me to shamisen in more depth

[@masumigartman4262]

My great grandmother played the shamisen, and my grandmother played the koto. I remember her teaching me as a child, unfortunately it's something I wasn't able to continue as I grew up.

[@TokyoLens]

That’s such an amazing memory to have though Thank you for sharing!!

[@masumigartman4262]

@@TokyoLens thank you for making such amazing content that brings me back to those wonderful memories! I love living vicariously through your videos!

[@elflass5544]

What a wealth of shamisen knowledge! I knew a lot about the splitting skin (I know the plum rain/mold rain season in Japan is hard on the skins, so it's good that synthetics like Rippuru are coming out, not to mention the vegan/animal-friendly aspect), but so much info on the strings, pegs, and just the imperfection aspect being compared to golf or bowling. Thanks, Norm!

[@TokyoLens]

Glad I could teach a little something!!

[@boywhohasl1vedhascometodie469]

Synthetic material sounds good. But keep in mind two things. One, it’s a tradition that everyone interested wants to preserve (like me), and two, God literally gave us domain over the Earth.

[@beshia1993]

Not sure if you've ever played the violin, but a lot of what you said in this video sounds exactly like being a violinist. Accepting that you'll never be perfect, constant tuning struggles, not buying cheap instruments 😅 I'm just glad I don't have to remove my bridge after every time I play 😂

[@lunarebony6122]

as a violin player, i can relate to the humidity thing all too well 😭 especially bcs i live in a hot country, it is HELL. the worst is when your bow is too loose of your hand is too sweaty, you cant stop playing to fix it 😭

[@eyuelnegash2681]

I love the shamisen i am gonna have to buy one thank you Tokyo Lens want more videos on shamisen💚

[@RobbC.]

I bought a Shamisen from eBay late one night, half asleep. I liked the look of it, it was super cheap and looked quite old. I seemed to be the only person showing interest (Not a lot of call for it in the UK!) and therefore won it. Now I know I have zero talent to play it but thought it might just look cool on the wall. I was just back from Japan so really missing anything Japanese. It came in a case, the skin was ripped of course, it has some kind of old Ocarina type tuning object, plain Bachi, spare strings and a few bits of paperwork - All for £80! Always love to hear the music, love to watch your content with the ladies. Keep up the great work :)

[@tykep1009]

I love to hear about your shamisen journey and listen to your performance more!

[@Legozanman]

Like a lot of people, I probably will never take up the instrument , but god do I love the sound. I will never not love the shamisen

[@martinmaglica3557]

Hmmm looks really interesting and a super complex instrument. It is super cool to listen to you as it seems that you are super into it!

[@Tygerfalcon]

I recently started watching your content, but I'm happy I discovered your videos.

[@TokyoLens]

Happy to have you here~ If you do a binge to catch up, leave me a trail of comments so I can get to know you!!

[@sofiadeleon6373]

This is so interesting! I’ll have to check out the Shamisen in Tokyo channel just to know your story properly.

[@sasuke1243]

I really want to live in Japan, and I watch "why not to live in japan" or "why You'll hate Japan" videos to see if the reasons they give are actually a big deal to me. I think knowing the negatives to something before you start can be really helpful down the line. I bet this was really helpful to a lot of shamisen hopefuls.

[@brooksnorthcutt]

0:37 "A little bit of context can go a long way in giving a lot of appreciation..." I think I just realized that's some life advice myself and many other people have been specifically looking for for a long time.

[@BlackHayateTheThird]

Loved the video! Notifications didn't seem to have sent properly (boo), so I missed when it went up, but I love your enthusiasm. I was lucky to be able to learn a lot of instruments. I started with classic piano (which I still love) and my rural school ended up having a pretty solid music school and I learnt percussion (mainly bells/ xylophone but you have to learn a variety of the percussion instruments) for which we went to nationals, jazz band, then in university randomly did Chinese ensemble and violin. There's so many different instruments that can teach one so many different things. It's unlikely that I'll learn shamisen, but wow, what an amazing instrument, I love its personality of 'imperfect perfection' and its musical voice depending on the independent player's interpretations.

[@FailureManagement]

Congratulations on 500k