Tsugaru Jonkara Bushi (Kyu)

Today, we are going to learn an original form of Tsugaru Jonkara Bushi! If you’ve seen shamisen players shredding at tournaments, they’re usually playing a heavily arranged form of this piece. The original form is a great piece to know, and should be an integral part of your repertoire!

In Part One, we learn the simplified melody without use of special techniques. This is suited best for beginners who are wanting to learn more songs while still getting comfortable with the shamisen.

In Part Two, we kick it up a notch by learning the full version including all the special techniques. The section is best for players who are already comfortable playing melodies and feel ready to add techniques like upstrokes and such.

In Part Three, emphases moves to adding dynamics and personal feeling to the piece. Specifically, we will learn the bachitsuke pattern and add an optional swinging rhythm to this piece. This section is ideal for those completely comfortable with playing the piece with techniques at full speed, and are ready to take it to the next level.

Finally, I demonstrate Tsugaru Jonkara Bushi with dynamics preferences.

Adventure starts now!