If you hear the sound of a shamisen in Japan, the chances are high that the instrument began life in a workshop in western Tokyo. The Tokyo Wagakki company has a history going back 135 years and ...

Uncover the intricate process behind crafting the Shamisen, a traditional and unique musical instrument. From selecting the finest materials to the careful construction of its body, neck ...

In the whole of the UK, Hibiki Ichikawa is the only professional player of tsugaru shamisen; a traditional 3-stringed instrument played using a large pick called a bachi. In recognition of his ...