Strings
Shamisen
The shamisen is one of the most popular and widely played instruments of Japan. As is the case with several other instruments, this lute originates from Chinese string instruments, and began to be used in Japan at the end of the 16th century. The rather small resonating box is mostly covered with skin from cats or dogs, which gives it a brilliant sound. The width of the neck influences the sound, too, and therefore three different sizes exist. The three stringed lute is held like a guitar and plucked with a plectrum. The shamisen was part of the education of Geishas, Japanese entertainer-artists. It is a perfect solo instrument, but also suits ensemble and chamber music.
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