How to string a Satsuma or Chikuzen biwa

I made this video for a friend but perhaps someone else will find it useful. If you have any questions please ask them in the comments.

Category:

Music

Tags:

• satsuma
• chikuzen
• biwa
• satsumabiwa
• chikuzenbiwa
• stringing
• string
• how-to
• howto

[sazger]

I've just acquired a Chikuzen biwa but it has no strings. I read your comment about special ordering and was wondering if you could recommend a website or source to buy from. Thanks!

[Obakedake]

@sazger I don't know of any online shops in Japan or otherwise which sell biwa strings. I usually order them directly from Japanese instrument shops which specialize in Japanese instruments, directly from the string makers, or buy spares from my teacher. I might set up a string selling business one day, but I'm a little hesitant due to the expense of the strings and the extremely limited market. You might be able to use shamisen or koto strings. Do you have a 5 string or 4 string instrument?

[RikuElement]

I finally got ahold of a biwa! A 4-string Chikuzen to be exact... but I am wondering how to tune it...?

[Obakedake]

@RikuElement

Congrats! The 4-string Chikuzen has four strings but since the third and fourth strings are played together (you'll notice only three notches at the head) it is essentially a three stringed instrument. As such the 3rd and 4th strings are always tuned to the same note, and the first string is one octave lower. The second string is tuned 3 steps higher then the first. Tuning is done relative to voice, but an example would be GCgg. Let me know if you have any questions. Good luck!

[unejoliefille]

hi there! A relative of mine recently died and left me a biwa. I know nothing about it, but I am trying to restore it and get it in playing order. Your videos have been very helpful, but I haven't found a lot of resources, and I can't find a place to buy strings! Would you be able to help me in any way? I would really appreciate your expertise!

[Obakedake]

Unfortunately I don't know of any places that sell biwa strings outside of Japan... They have to be special ordered, even here. Maybe if there's enough demand I'll open an online shop or something, selling some biwa strings and accessories, but that would be catering to something like 5 people. But maybe there's a demand.

[XamiNaxamis]

Really useful! I noticed that Japan is starting to influence your accent. (this was bothering me sry XD)

[junji1337]

Pretty useful stuff!

[Obakedake]

Glad you found it helpful! If you have any trouble please ask and I can try to help you!

[Rahmemhotep]

hmm, this is exactly what i will refer to when i get a Chikuzen. thanks :]