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How well do you know Japanese culture?
If you’re learning Japanese, we bet you’re well aware of some of the unique things this culture has to offer. But what about Japan’s music? Were you aware that most Japanese folk instruments aren’t as well-known to the world?
If traditional Japanese music is your thing, then read on. Below are some of the best traditional Japanese instruments that you should know about.
Koto
Koto is a zither-style instrument made of pine or mulberry wood. It has thirteen strings and thirteen movable bridges. These allow for different tuning configurations.
Fingertips or plectrums pluck the strings on the koto. This can produce a wide range of musical expressions. This instrument was once used for court music and solo compositions.
It has since got incorporated into many genres. These include pop, rock, and noise.
The instrument has a rich history. It remains an integral part of Japan’s musical tradition today.
Shamisen
Played with a pick, the shamisen produces a distinctive twangy sound. This sound is a signature of traditional Japanese music. It is also what makes the shamisen one of the most famous instruments from Japan.
The instrument has three strings on a long, fretted neck. It is typically made out of hardwood so that its sound gets amplified. Its sound is a blend of the picking of the strings and the sound of the strings getting plucked.
It also has unique tunings that can create rhythm and melodic patterns. The shamisen is a versatile and interesting instrument that is still popular today for enka and folk music in Japan.
Biwa
The Biwa is a Japanese stringed instrument of a unique style. It is traditionally crafted with a pear-shaped body and four strings. Biwa originates in China, although it is mostly associated with Japan.
It is played through the plucking of the strings with a plectrum. This instrument was highly popular during the medieval and Edo periods in Japan.
The biwa has seen a huge revival in recent years. It is now used in modern arrangements such as at weddings and other festive occasions.
For more unique Japanese instruments, you can also check out the Jin-ashi variety options online.
Taiko
The Taiko is a very large drum that is often played in festivals, ceremonies, and religious ceremonies. The word “Taiko” is a combination of the words Tai and Ko. “Tai” means “big” and “ko” which means “drum”.
It is a very versatile instrument made from various materials such as wood, metal, and ceramic. Generally, it gets held in the hands and played with two sticks.
Surrounding the drumhead is a variety of different rhythms and sounds. Taiko has become an essential part of Japanese culture. With its range of sounds and musical capability, it has become an art form in its own right.
Getting to Know Traditional Japanese Instruments
The traditional Japanese instruments are truly exquisite. They have an amazingly unique sound that can bring ancient stories and emotions to life.
If you’re interested in learning more about them, why not take a class? Or, you can even attend a concert. Whatever you choose, you won’t regret it!
For more music-related content, be sure to check out the rest of our blog.
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