Nov
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Mon
17th
Tools for playing the sanshin
Question: What should I use to play the sanshin?
Bachi, usually carved from buffalo horns, come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Also called “tsume,” or (finger) “nail” in english, you can buy them with different designs or of different materials.
Playing with the bachi can be a little difficult at first, so strumming with a guitar pick or your thumb is an alternative until you get used to it. However, you’ll eventually want to start using a bachi sooner or later.
To hold the bachi, or “tsume” as it’s also called, insert your index finger into the open end and pinch the point with your middle finger and thumb. The thumb should fit snugly onto the curved underside of the bachi, and the middle finger should be opposite the thumb on the smooth topside.
