Recently, a student from the Intermediate 2 Intensive Class treated us to a shamisen performance at the beginning of class.

His journey with the shamisen began back in Taiwan, where he was fascinated by its sound and feel. After coming to Japan, he continued practicing, and now it has already been a year.

Originally, the performance was planned for a project presentation, but due to sound system issues, it couldn’t take place. Instead, the teacher kindly set aside some time in class so that everyone could enjoy it.

👉Project presentation article here

Before the performance, the student held the shamisen with great care. The instrument was spotless, showing how much respect and attention he gives it every day. As the first notes rang out, the powerful and clear sound spread through the classroom, even reaching the hallway. The atmosphere shifted immediately, and classmates, as well as teachers drawn in by the sound, listened intently.

The student performed two pieces, Tokyo Ondo and Tsugaru Jongara Bushi. Though the performance only lasted a few minutes, it earned heartfelt applause from everyone present.

Through the shamisen, we witnessed how music can transcend cultural boundaries and bring people together. We look forward to hearing more moving performances in the future.