The Tsugaru Shamisen Duo "Ki&Ki"

This video, titled "Shamisen Girls Ki&Ki - Tsugaru Jongara Bushi," was uploaded by "Shamisen in Tokyo."

The Tsugaru-shamisen musicians introduced in the video are a popular female musical duo called Ki&Ki (KiKi) from Japan.
The group is composed of two members, Hikari Shirafuji (白藤ひかり) and Kanami Takeda (武田佳泉), who continue to release modern pieces of music performed on the traditional Tsugaru-shamisen.

The Music of Ki&Ki

Source :YouTube screenshot

Ki&Ki, formed in 2008, is a musical duo of Tsugaru-shamisen performers.
Both members have taken first place in numerous Tsugaru-shamisen competitions all over Japan.
Ki&Ki perform a variety of music, from the traditional folk music Tsugaru Jongara Bushi to more modern music with rock and pop influences.
They also perform cover songs as well as performing their own original music.

There are various style of Tsugaru Jongara Bushi, including "Kyu-bushi" (旧節, a high-tempo style) and "Shin-bushi" (新節, a style sung with a quick tempo).
Ki&Ki perform a style called "Shin-kyu-bushi" which is a combination of the two previous styles and is extremely popular among fans.

Check Out Ki&Ki Band!

Source :YouTube screenshot

Ki&Ki Band is a five member group composed of the original Ki&Ki duo, together with Tatsuya Itou (伊藤辰哉) on piano, Keisuke Shimada (島田圭佑) on bass, and Yasuhito Sakairi (坂入康仁) on drums.
It's hard to believe the band's powerful music is performed on traditional Japanese instruments!
Prepare to be captivated by the delicate yet powerful sound of Ki&Ki Band, a sound like no other that will keep you coming back for more!

Experience Playing the Tsugaru-Shamisen!

Source :YouTube screenshot

The Tsugaru-shamisen is a traditional Japanese instrument that originating in Aomori prefecture (青森県) and dating back to the Bakumatsu (end of the Edo period, 1853 AD-1869 AD).
The first Tsugaru-shamisen was made by the Buddhist monk Nitabo (仁太坊).
In recent years, more and more artists are performing modern arrangements of Shamisen music and the music genre is growing in popularity.

Due to the growing popularity of Tsugaru-shamisen music, the number of schools offering Tsugaru-shamisen playing experiences has also been on the rise.
The lessons are suitable for complete beginners so no need to worry if you have no experience playing the Tsugaru-shamisen.
Have fun trying to play your favorite music and feel free to sing along!

Summary of the Tsugaru-Shamisen

Source :YouTube screenshot

Many people think of the Tsugaru-shamisen as a traditional instrument for playing traditional Japanese music, however, as you can see in the video, a growing number of artists are performing more modern arrangements that appeal to larger audiences.

If you enjoyed watching the Tsugaru-shamisen performance, why not experience playing the traditional Japanese instrument yourself by taking a lesson or two at a school near you!

【Official Website】Tsugaru-Shamisen Ki&Ki
https://www.shamisenkiki.com/