Haitantamisen

Haitantamisen, also known as Haitan Tamisen, is a traditional Japanese musical instrument that combines elements of the tamisen and the haitan. It is a stringed instrument with a pear-shaped body, similar to the tamisen, but with a longer neck and a different tuning system. The haitan tamisen typically has 13 strings, which are divided into two groups: the lower group of 7 strings is tuned in the same manner as a tamisen, while the upper group of 6 strings is tuned in a unique manner, with the highest string being an octave higher than the lowest string of the lower group.

The haitan tamisen is often used in traditional Japanese music, particularly in the genres of gagaku and shakuhachi. It is also used in contemporary music, where it is often used to create a unique, ethereal sound. The instrument is played by plucking the strings with the fingers, similar to the tamisen, but with a different technique due to the longer neck and different tuning system.

The haitan tamisen is a relatively rare instrument, and there are few luthiers who specialize in its construction. As a result, the instrument is often handmade, and each one is unique in its design and sound. The haitan tamisen is an important part of Japanese musical heritage, and its use in traditional and contemporary music continues to be an important aspect of Japanese culture.