The shamisen (三味線), also known as sangen (三絃) or samisen (all meaning "three strings"), is a three-stringed traditional Japanese musical instrument derived from the Chinese instrument sanxian. It is played with a plectrum called a bachi.

The shamisen is a plucked chordophone of Japan that has been popular in folk, art, and theatre music since the middle of the 17th century. Alternately known as samisen (in Kyoto and Osaka) and sangen (when played with koto in jiuta chamber music), and now sometimes spelled syamisen, the shamisen has associated with it a large repertoire of music.

Shamisen is Japan’s traditional 3-string plucked instrument. Relatively a new instrument, brought from China to Japan during the 16th century, the Shamisen is one of Japan’s most popular traditional string instruments.

Jun 17, 2023 · The shamisen is a traditional Japanese musical instrument with a distinctive sound, featuring a three-stringed lute-like body, a stretched animal skin covering, and a long neck. It is played using a plectrum called a bachi to strike and pluck the strings, creating a wide range of melodies and rhythms.

Nov 5, 2024 · The Shamisen is a traditional Japanese three-stringed instrument known for its distinctive sound and versatility. Originating in Japan in the 16th century, the Shamisen has become an integral part of various forms of Japanese …

Apr 2, 2021 · The shamisen is a stringed instrument and one of the traditional musical instruments of Japan. It comprises a wooden body covered with animal or synthetic skin and a long neck on...

Mar 5, 2025 · Though of ancient origins, the sounds of the shamisen ring out in modern times, in both Japan and beyond. Its wide range and unique sound give this instrument the ability to adapt to new genres of music as well as find its place in modern visual media.

Mar 5, 2025 · samisen, long-necked fretless Japanese lute. The instrument has a small square body with a catskin front and back, three twisted-silk strings, and a curved-back pegbox with side pegs. It is played with a large plectrum; different types of plectrums produce distinct tone colours for specific types of music.

Sep 9, 2024 · The shamisen is a traditional Japanese musical instrument known for its distinctive sound and versatility in various cultural contexts. Originating from China, the shamisen has evolved over centuries to become an integral part of Japanese music and theater.

Discover the Shamisen, the Japanese instrument, its origin, materials used, playing techniques and how it is integrated into Japanese music. The Japanese Shamisen instrument, also known as “Samisen,” has a rich history dating back several centuries.