Teach: Koto, Shamisen, and Shakuhachi

Koto, Shamisen, and Shakuhachi

In this lesson, you will learn about the koto, shamisen, and shakuhachi, three especially important instruments in Japanese traditional music. The goal is not merely to memorize words, but to be able to explain their structures and reasons in your own words.

Key Points
A koto is tuned with movable bridges, a shamisen is played with a plectrum, and the shakuhachi’s pitch and tone color can be changed by adjusting the angle of the breath.
Points to Remember
  • Check the reasons as well as the conclusions
  • Distinguish similar terms and exceptions
  • Try using the same way of thinking with other examples

Practice

  1. Explain the key points in two sentences.
  2. Give one common misconception and explain what is different.
  3. Check your understanding by applying it to a familiar or concrete example.

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