Finding an Instructor

To anyone who is interested in learning to play shamisen, I would highly recommend getting an instructor, as the shamisen is an extremely difficult instrument to learn on your own. However, finding a shamisen instructor outside of Japan can be an interesting challenge. There are a limited number of instructors overseas, but you may be lucky enough to have one in your area. For those who do not have any instructors nearby, there are some who teach via webcam (usually Skype).

The following websites have lists of shamisen instructors:

Chords Canada - lists for US, Canada, and Australia 

Bachido - for tsugaru style shamisen only

If you are interested in learning jiuta or another style in particular, make sure you discuss that with the potential instructor beforehand.

When you do find an instructor to work with, always be sure to pay on time, be early to lessons, and thank the instructor after every session. Do your best to practice regularly and be honest when you are having difficulties.