Best Self-Learning Resources for Japanese and French Instruments85

Embarking on a musical journey can be incredibly rewarding, and with the wealth of resources available online, learning to play an instrument has become more accessible than ever. If you're particularly drawn to the enchanting sounds of Japanese or French instruments, there are numerous self-learning options that can guide you towards musical proficiency.

Japanese Instruments

Shamisen

The shamisen is a three-stringed lute that produces a distinctive twangy sound. Its intricate playing techniques make it a challenging but rewarding instrument to master. Begin your learning journey with the "Shamisen Master" app, which offers lessons, tutorials, and a virtual shamisen simulator. "Shamisen Basic Course" by Masahiro Nitta on Udemy provides a comprehensive course with step-by-step guidance.

Tsugaru Shamisen

A variant of the shamisen, the Tsugaru shamisen is known for its energetic and percussive playing style. "Tsugaru Shamisen Dojo" is an excellent online school with video lessons, interactive exercises, and live feedback from instructors. "Tsugaru Shamisen for Beginners" by Yuki Nakai on Skillshare offers a beginner-friendly introduction to this vibrant instrument.

Koto

The koto is a 13-stringed zither that creates ethereal and haunting melodies. "Koto Basics" by Aska Kaneko on Coursera provides a structured course with interactive quizzes and graded assignments. "Learn to Play Japanese Koto by Ear" by Shinnosuke Tokuriki on Udemy teaches traditional playing techniques and encourages ear training.

French Instruments

Accordion

The accordion is a versatile instrument that can produce a wide range of sounds. "Accordion Academy" is an online platform with lessons for all levels, including beginner-friendly courses and advanced tutorials. "Accordion MasterClass" by Jamie Oehlers on Udemy offers a comprehensive course that covers technique, sheet music reading, and improvisation.

Oboe

The oboe is a double-reed woodwind instrument known for its penetrating and expressive sound. "Oboe Online Academy" by Kate Vincent provides a structured course with video lessons, practice materials, and feedback from an experienced oboist. "Oboe Lessons for Beginners" by Mark Alban Lotz on Skillshare offers a comprehensive introduction to the basics of oboe playing.

Saxophone

The saxophone is a popular woodwind instrument known for its rich and mellow sound. "Saxophone Easy Lessons" by Michael Zilber on Udemy is a great starting point for beginners, while "Saxophone Ultimate Learning Program" by John Park provides a comprehensive course that covers technique, improvisation, and playing in different styles.

Additional Tips for Self-Learning

- Set realistic practice goals and stick to them.

- Find a study buddy to share motivation and provide feedback.

- Record yourself playing and listen back to identify areas for improvement.

- Seek occasional guidance from an experienced musician or teacher.

- Stay patient and persistent; learning an instrument takes time and effort.

With dedication and the right resources, self-learning to play Japanese or French instruments can become an enriching and fulfilling experience. Embark on your musical journey today and experience the joy of creating beautiful music!

2025-01-05

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