SAMURAI ROCK – Satsuma Biwa Experience
Learn Japanese manners and etiquette through music with a professional artist.
The Satsuma Biwa is a traditional Japanese four-stringed lute, played with a large plectrum (biwa bachi). Originating from Kagoshima Prefecture, it is renowned for its rich history, profound sound, and distinctive visual appeal. It was an essential part of a samurai’s education and accomplishments, believed to offer protection in times of conflict, with the plectrum even said to double as a weapon. Now, immerse yourself in the spirit of the samurai by letting the resonant sounds of this powerful instrument echo within you.
Key Points of the Experience
- You will have the opportunity to truly touch and play the Satsuma Biwa, a historical instrument favored by samurai since the Heian period.
- Enjoy playing with all your heart – you can even sing along!
- Etiquette is key when interacting with the Satsuma Biwa. You’ll truly feel Japan’s traditional manners firsthand.
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LOCATION
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WHEN
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DURATION
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GROUP OF PEOPLE
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| Yamato City, Kanagawa Prefecture | 10:00am-11:30am | 70 minutes | 1-10 people |
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About the Experience
Duration: 70 minutes
Fee: 350 USD per person
Location: Yamato City Community Center Sakuramori Kaikan
Group Size: 1 – 10 people
Sample Schedule (Starting at 10:00 AM)
10:00 AM – 10:30 AM: Greetings and a lecture on Japanese manners/etiquette for instrument playing.
10:30 AM – 11:00 AM: Hands-on experience: You will touch and play the Satsuma Biwa.
11:00 AM – 11:10 AM: Break
11:10 AM – 11:30 AM: Playing the Satsuma Biwa while vocalizing / Epilogue
Experience Features
★Your instructor is a professional artist with an impressive track record, having won numerous competitions.
They have even performed dedicatory music at national treasure-class shrines, and are truly a “walking power spot” who has brought the sound of Satsuma Biwa to countries worldwide, including the US, Africa, and China.
AGENDA
The session begins with self-introductions, followed by an introduction to the history and proper techniques of the Satsuma Biwa. You’ll learn the formal manners for handling the instrument before moving on to playing. The session concludes with a solo performance video recording, which will be delivered to you via email at a later date.
Language: Japanese / English
Included
- Instructor fee
- instrument rental (including insurance)
- venue usage fee
Not Included
- Transportation costs
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Cancellation Policy and Refunds
Cancellations made up to 48 hours in advance are free. Cancellations within 48 hours will incur a 100% cancellation fee, with no refund.
Regarding Late Arrivals
Late arrivals are generally not accepted. Please assemble 10 minutes prior to your reserved time. If you are significantly delayed, the break time will be shortened accordingly. Your understanding is appreciated.
Belongings and clothes
Casual attire is welcome. However, you may be asked to remove accessories or anything that could interfere with the instrument.
Others
You will be using one of only a few Satsuma Biwa instruments available worldwide. Please handle the plectrum (bachi) with utmost care.
MEETING POINT & HOW TO ACCESS
Meeting Point : Yamato City Community Center Sakuramori Kaikan
3-5-21 Sakuramori, Yamato City, Kanagawa
How to Access
From Sagami-Otsuka Station (Sotetsu Line), exit the ticket gate, turn right, and descend the north-side stairs. Head towards the traffic light. Take a stroll through the local streets and immerse yourself in the experience.
