Links & Resources
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Below is a list of website links which you may find helpful, and also a list of resources to learn more about the shamisen and the fascinating world of traditional Japanese music. These lists are works in progress, so if you know of something which should be included, please don't hesitate to let us know!
Websites
Bachido
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Perhaps the most comprehensive wesite on shamisen in English, the mission of Bachido is to bring you everything you need to play shamisen: instruction, community, and of course the instrument itself. Although focused primarily on Tsugaru Style shamisen, there is still plenty of useful information on this site for anyone who is interested in the instrument, and a forum of enthusiastic and knowledgeable players who can answer whatever questions you might have.
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Curtis Patterson
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A native of Chicago Illinois, Curtis Patterson studied with modern koto great Tadao Sawai. He holds a master's license from the Sawai Koto Institute and is the first non-Japanese national to graduate from the NHK training program for young performers of traditional Japanese instruments. Currently residing in Tokyo where he also teaches koto and shamisen, Patterson has performed with a wide variety of artists including screen actress Matsuzaka Keiko and popular singer/songwriter Kei Ogura. He was part of the AUN drumming unit's 50 concert tour in 2002 and appeared on the main stage at the 2004 Rain Forest World Music Festival in Sarawak, Malaysia. A member of the Sawai Tadao Koto Ensemble, Soemon and the US based Koto Phase, Patterson released a solo CD "Oto No Wa" in 2002.
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Kameya
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This shop makes and sells instruments, and provides instrument maintenance. They have supported Yakumo Nagauta Kai activities for many years. Kameya specializes in shamisens, kotos and kokyu. All repairs are done by professionals at their shop. The family has been in the shamisen business for at least 4 generations. Their webpages are both Japanese and English.
The Nagauta Association
http://www.nagauta.or.jp/index.html
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This is the largest Nagauta Association in Japan. Webpages in Japanese and English.
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Resources
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