The Koto is one of Japan’s most cherished traditional instruments. Its elegant shape and rich sound have captivated audiences for centuries. Known for its resemblance to a dragon, the Koto is a long, zither-like instrument with thirteen strings stretched over a hollow body. The sound produced by plucking these strings has made the Koto a key feature of Japanese music, from ancient court performances to modern-day compositions.
What is the Koto?
The Koto is a traditional Japanese stringed instrument made from Paulownia wood. The instrument consists of thirteen strings stretched over movable bridges called ji. The player uses Tsume, picks worn on the right-hand fingers, to pluck the strings. The left hand is used to press down on the strings to alter the pitch or create vibrato, allowing the Koto to produce a wide variety of tones. Each part of the Koto is symbolically named after a dragon, with the front called the Ryu-tou (dragon’s head) and the back referred to as the Ryu-bi (dragon’s tail).
History of the Koto
The Koto’s origins can be traced back to the Nara period (710–794 AD), when it was introduced to Japan from China as part of Gagaku, the court music of Japan. Initially, it was played exclusively by the aristocracy and was considered a symbol of high status.
During the Edo period (1603–1868 AD), the Koto became more widely used, particularly with the efforts of Yatsuhashi Kengyo. He developed new playing techniques and introduced compositions that made the instrument accessible to the common people. Yatsuhashi’s contributions were so significant that he is often referred to as the “father of modern Koto music”.
Features of the Koto
The Koto is distinguished by its thirteen strings, each supported by individual movable bridges. The Tsume picks, typically made of ivory or plastic, are worn on the right hand’s thumb, index, and middle fingers to pluck the strings. Players adjust the position of the ji bridges to fine-tune the strings before performance, allowing for a wide range of tunings and musical scales.
The body of the Koto is made of hollow Paulownia wood, and its unique structure amplifies the sound produced when the strings are plucked. The resonance within the body creates the Koto’s rich, vibrant tone.
Types of Koto
While the most common type of Koto is the thirteen-string version, there are several other variations based on the number of strings, each offering different musical possibilities:
- Thirteen-string Koto: This is the standard version of the Koto, most commonly used in both traditional and modern Koto music. It has thirteen strings, which are plucked using Tsume picks. This version is often used in both Sokyoku (Koto music) and Gagaku.
- Seventeen-string Koto (Jūshichi-gen): Developed in the 20th century by Koto virtuoso Miyagi Michio, the seventeen-string Koto is used to create deeper, bass-like tones. It is often employed to accompany other Koto or traditional instruments in ensemble performances, adding richness to the overall sound.
- Twenty-string Koto (Nijū-gen): The twenty-string Koto was developed to expand the range of musical possibilities. It is more versatile than the thirteen-string Koto, allowing performers to play more complex and contemporary pieces.
- Twenty-five-string Koto (Nijūgo-gen): As the name suggests, this Koto has twenty-five strings, offering an even wider range of notes. It is mainly used in modern Koto compositions and contemporary ensemble works, where the performer requires a broader range of tonal expression.
These various types of Koto allow performers to explore a greater diversity of musical styles and sounds, from traditional pieces to contemporary compositions.
The Koto in Traditional Japanese Music
The Koto is used in various traditional Japanese music genres, where it plays a key role in both solo and ensemble performances.
Gagaku (Imperial Court Music)
In Gagaku, the Koto plays a distinctive role as a timekeeper, providing rhythmic support throughout the performance. It is part of the Kangen ensemble, which also includes wind and percussion instruments. The Koto marks the rhythmic structure of the entire piece, allowing the other instruments, such as the Hichiriki (double-reed flute) and Ryuteki (bamboo flute), to play their melodic lines over the steady pulse provided by the Koto.
Unlike in other genres where the Koto’s melodic capacity is highlighted, in Gagaku, its primary function is to ensure that the rhythm remains consistent. This unique role within Gagaku sets the Koto apart from its use in other traditional Japanese music forms.
Sokyoku (Koto Music)
Sokyoku refers to music composed for the Koto. Over time, the Koto became the centerpiece of a genre known as Sokyoku, which includes both instrumental and vocal music. Yatsuhashi Kengyo was instrumental in developing Sokyoku by creating new playing techniques and compositions that made Koto music accessible beyond the aristocracy.
How to Play the Koto
Playing the Koto involves a combination of plucking the strings with the right hand and pressing down on the strings with the left hand to alter the pitch. Tsume picks are worn on the fingers to pluck the strings, and the player uses their left hand to press the strings behind the ji bridges to bend notes and create vibrato.
The position of the ji bridges can be adjusted before performance to achieve different tunings. The typical tuning for traditional Koto music is the Hirajoshi scale, but modern compositions may use a variety of tunings.
Structure of the Koto
The Koto’s body is hollow and made of Paulownia wood, which enhances its sound by amplifying the vibrations of the strings. The strings are stretched across the body of the instrument, supported by moveable ji bridges, which can be shifted left or right to adjust the pitch. Moving the ji to the right raises the pitch, while moving it to the left lowers the pitch.
Famous Koto Works and Cultural Influence
The Koto has had a lasting impact on Japanese music and culture. Two key examples of its influence include traditional compositions and modern cultural representations.
“Rokudan no Shirabe”
One of the most famous Koto compositions is “Rokudan no Shirabe”, composed by Yatsuhashi Kengyo. This piece consists of six sections, each with its own melody and mood, and remains a staple in the Koto repertoire.
“Kono Oto Tomare!”
The Koto has also influenced modern culture. The popular manga and anime “Kono Oto Tomare!” (Sounds of Life) highlights the beauty of Koto music through the story of high school students who form a Koto club. This series has brought renewed interest in the Koto, especially among younger generations.
Conclusion
The Koto is a remarkable instrument that has played a central role in Japan’s musical heritage for centuries. From its origins in the imperial courts to its widespread use in traditional and modern compositions, the Koto continues to captivate audiences with its delicate and powerful sound. Whether performing ancient court music or contemporary works, the Koto remains an essential part of Japan’s cultural identity.
