Matsugorō Sawamura, grandfather to Setsu and Wakana Sawamura and father to Umeko Sawamura, was a master of the Tsugaru shamisen. Highly skilled and deeply respected within Tsugaru shamisen circles, he never pursued widespread fame during his lifetime. He spent three decades composing and refining his original improvisational piece, "Shungyou" (Spring Dawn), which reached completion only near the end of his life. This signature work shifted significantly over the years, changing with each performance and mirroring his own artistic journey.

As a teacher, Matsugorō prioritized individuality, urging his grandsons to discover their own unique "sound" rather than replicate his own. He expressly forbade Setsu from playing the shamisen after his passing until Setsu could forge his own musical identity. Matsugorō's influence extended beyond his family; his music left a profound mark on listeners like Toshiko (Shuri Maeda's grandmother), who encountered a raw, evolving rendition of "Spring Dawn" in her youth. His artistry forged deep emotional connections.

After his death, Matsugorō's demanding philosophy and emphasis on authenticity over mere technical skill continued to resonate. They shaped the central conflict for his descendants, particularly Setsu's struggle to honor his grandfather while finding his own path. His legacy also echoed through the Kamiki school, where his estranged son became a prominent teacher. His name, Matsugorō Sawamura, combines the characters for "marsh" and "village" (Sawamura), with his given name invoking notions of longevity and strength.