Atsushi Masuda’s official web site
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EcKo-mini Bible
Original instruction book
Came out in May 2019
A simple learning book that does not require specialized knowledge
This is a teaching book for the original short koto "EcKo-mini" that thoroughly pursues easy-to-understand, in which musical instruments, playing styles, and sheet music can be tackled as a trinity. Based on the concept of anyone, anywhere, learning will proceed with the attached CD so that you can study by yourself anywhere.
* You can read music from the beginning ___
Even if you don't learn the traditional specialized koto notation, you can learn how to play one after another while playing the familiar melody (from 100 selections of Japanese songs) just by chasing the string names and lyrics written side by side on the staff notation.
* You can play with just your thumb ___
You can learn the basics without difficulty by attaching the koto nail required for your right hand only to your thumb. Originally, it is also attached to the index finger and middle finger, but we will aim for an efficient level up by gradually increasing the number of fingers used.
* Revolutionary tuning method ___
Since there are three major scales to use (Hirajoshi, Nogi, and Raku), the number of koto pillars to move is limited and you can start practicing immediately. In addition, the special tuning method reduces difficult playing styles, so you can experience the joy of playing a song first.
* Useful for experts ___
Beginner, of course, we have put the know-how of new music for each song is also to experience. In addition, you can collaborate with other musical instruments by receiving guidance from the same song with stepped-up sheet music.
◎ Teaching material song list
01 Happy Hina Matsuri
02 Oborozukiyo
03 Sakura Sakura
04 Tea picking
05 Edo Lullaby
06 Kamome's sailor
July Desert
08 Summer memories
09 Arajo no Tsuki
10 Hometown
11 Toryanse / Zuizu Izukurobashi
12 Hotaru no Hikari
EcKo-mini
Original short koto
Came out in October 2014
Aizu paulownia short koto in pursuit of sound and functionality
An original short koto with a total length of 3 shaku (about 90 cm) that has been enhanced in volume, tone, and functionality in collaboration with a Japanese koto craftsman. In addition to the portability that has been useful for the same type so far, various ingenuity has been made in the manufacturing method and setup method so that the traditional scale and tone can be reproduced as much as possible even if it is short.
* From ancient songs to current songs ___
By correctly observing the default basic scale (flat tone), the scale (five scales) required for classical songs can be tuned by simply sliding the koto pillar left and right at any time, depending on the frequency of use and temperature as in the past. There is no problem that the koto pillars collide with each other . In addition, by replacing the "one" string koto pillar (small size) with a "special type koto pillar", the scale (7 scales) required for modern songs can be tuned more appropriately.
* Simple maintenance ___
In order to maintain a constant tension with the "tension adjustment handle", we have established appropriate standards and operating methods. We also show you a simple string replacement method in case of a string break, so you can use it with confidence not only in Japan but also overseas.
* Beautiful sound at any time ___
You can get a beautiful tone immediately after opening the case without taking time to prepare the instrument (attaching the koto pillar and tuning). You can learn more accurately by taking lessons on how to maintain the correct pitch at all times.
◎ Accessories
● Koto pillar (special type and regular size)
● Spare string (with stopper)
● Tension adjustment handle
● tuner
● Body non-slip sheet
EcKo-pick
Original koto pick
Came out in May 2009
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A modern koto claw that renews the traditional shape
The koto claws are as close as possible to the feeling of playing with your fingers, enabling fine movements that have never been possible before. The shape of the holes can be used to control extra sounds, making it ideal for music with rhythms and chords that are indispensable in modern times.
* You can play with the sensation of your finger ___
You can catch the strings naturally, just as you would grab an object in your daily life . You can take in the movements you normally use, such as holding a pen or holding chopsticks while wearing it.
* Move quickly ___
Since it is made to fit the shape of the fingertips as short as possible, fine movement is possible. In addition, the hole in the center makes the whole lighter, so you can move it quickly.
* The force of the finger is directly transmitted ___
You can easily control the volume by having the point where you catch the strings directly under your finger. Even without resorting to mass feeling of Sotsume, earned the volume by operating without difficulty bending of the string, and prevent and mitigate the results in the hands of the burden tenosynovitis.
* Wearing with a dedicated tape ___
The claw ring on a conventional koto claw is often caught on a string and comes off during a performance. With EcKo-pick, if you put it on correctly, you can reduce the risk of it coming off during a performance. Since it does not require a nail ring, it does not cost the nail ring to be replaced frequently, and it also eliminates the trouble caused by the expansion and contraction of the nail ring and the pain of tightening.
◎ Mounting and size identification method
How to wear your thumb How to wear the person / middle finger
Wearing video (nail side) Wearing video (ventral side)
(Note) The black tape in the video is used to make it easier to understand how it is attached, but it is actually a transparent tape.