Shamisen
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The Shamisen is a long-necked lute played in many kinds of Japanese music, from folk and popular music to theatrical and experimental art forms. The three strings have various tunings, including one especially for comic music. A shamisen player usually accompanies a singer, using the plectrum to strike both the strings and the belly of the shamisen at the same time.
| Family |
| Strings |
| Pitch range |
| Adjusted according to the range of the singer, which may vary considerably. |
| Material |
| Neck and body of red sandalwood, mulberry, or quince ; the belly and back front either cat - or dogskin. |
| Size |
| 3 ft (1 m) long. |
| Origins |
| The shamisen is a Japanese instrument that was developed from earlier Chinese models, such as the sanxian, in the 17th century. |
| Classification |
| Chordophone: an instrument that produces its sound by the vibration of strings. |
| And also... |
| The name "shamisen" (three tasteful strings) replaced the original name "sangen" (three strings). |
