I would imagine that there are a number of people who are attracted to TsugaruShamisen and want to begin learning the instrument, but they are unable to take the necessary first steps. Unlike piano or guitar, learning to play or even tune the instrument is quite difficult. The scale used in Japanese music is unfamiliar to those trained in the western classical music tradition as it is a 12-pitch equal-tempered scale. The initial steps necessary to become familiar with the instrument are basic and a little tedious. After you have gotten through this initial stage you are able to play various musical pieces, and you feel a sense of accomplishment.

I'll soon be publishing a book of musical scores for Tsugaru Shamisen -- something which has hitherto been unavailable, since peices are usually passed on from teacher to student without being written down and a strong improvisational element is involved in their performance.

My students are of various ages, backgrounds, and levels of ability.