No matter which course you intend to take, please start by taking this trial lesson first. 

Shamisens can generally be divided into three categories: futozao (fat neck), chuzao (middle neck), and hosozao (thin neck). The techniques and tools that you use to play different songs and genres vary. In my lessons, we will be using a hosozao shamisen to play nagauta (long epic songs).

There is no age restriction, but there are no shamisens for small scale (for example 2/3 size) or left handed players, so students must be able to hold the instrument properly and be able to reach the topmost position. For children, 5th or 6th graders and up should be fine. 

Generally, players sit in the traditional Japanese seiza style, but there are special chairs available for shamisen performances. Balancing techniques differ for seiza and for chairs, so if you could notify me of your choice beforehand I can prepare the appropriate lesson.

• Before You Begin Learning Shamisen- We will discuss what you need, camera positioning, and your playing experience.
• If you don't have an instrument yet, please consult with me first before getting one. There are different styles for practicing and performing and there is a huge price difference between the two. I recommend starting with the practice shamisen, but there are also many different types of practice instruments. Please talk things over with me and I will help find you the most reasonably priced instrument and tools.
• If you already have an instrument, please be prepared to show it to me over Skype.
• Shamisen for Beginners- We will learn the basics of the shamisen's structure, posture (proper form for performances), tuning, how to hold the bachi (plectrum), how to use the bachi, how to pluck the 3 strings, scales (positions). We will spread these topics over several lessons (ideally 10 to 15). We will also learn how to read basic sheet music. I have original music prepared for beginner students that I will send to you as a PDF file. We will learn according to this sheet music, and you can also practice and review on your own.
• We don't necessarily have to play just nagauta. As we progress, we can also try playing children's songs, hauta, or kabuki songs. 
• Let's try to play with proper timing and tempo. 
• Shamisen for Intermediate and Advanced- We will practice technique by focusing on playing nagauta. Let's begin with well performed songs. Listening to CD's as a reference can also help you improve. 
• I can help advanced students with specific songs and high tones, so please let me know what your song request is before the lesson.

*This lesson is conduced only in Japanese.