Shamisen Sensei, Kumiya Fujimoto (Photo: Claire Taylor)

(Writer: Neil White)
To study the instrument in modern Tokyo, as traditional, and potentially expensive as it may appear is not that difficult a goal to achieve with several schools out there offering low cost classes for groups. Some classes are even conducted in English, with the make-up of the room geared more towards comfort than tradition - chairs replacing seiza sitting styles the most obvious difference.

One particularly recommended teacher, fluent in English and a licensed performer with several years of experience in teaching non-Japanese is to be found in the downtown Ueno area of Tokyo, not far from the main JR and subway lines station. Known as the Shamisen Sensei, Kumiya Fujimoto, still in her late 20s, teaches in one-to-one and group format and has helped many students through their initial fear of tacking a foreign art form so different yet, as becomes apparent after a little time in Fujimoto's presence, so approachable, so interesting, and so welcoming of effort that even beginners are able to acquire a sense of achievement after a relatively short time.

Website: www.shamisen-sensei.com