Traditional Japanese music is rich with a variety of unique instruments that contribute to its distinct and captivating sound. Here are some words for traditional Japanese instruments commonly used in Japanese music:
1. 箏 (Koto) – Koto
A traditional Japanese stringed instrument with 13 strings, plucked with picks called “tsume.
2. 尺八 (Shakuhachi) – Shakuhachi
A traditional Japanese bamboo flute with five finger holes and a mouthpiece.
3. 三味線 (Shamisen) – Shamisen
A three-stringed lute-like instrument with a long neck, played with a plectrum called a “bachi.”
4. 和太鼓 (Wadaiko) – Wadaiko
Japanese traditional drums, which come in various sizes and are played with sticks called “bachi.
5. 木魚 (Mokugyo) – Mokugyo
A wooden fish-shaped percussion instrument used in Buddhist rituals.
6. 鼓 (Tsuzumi) – Tsuzumi
A traditional hand drum with an hourglass shape, often used in Noh and Kabuki performances.
7. 笛 (Fue) – Fue
A general term for various Japanese flutes made of bamboo or wood.
8. 太鼓 (Taiko) – Taiko
A generic term for various types of drums used in Japanese music and festivals.
9. 篠笛 (Shinobue) – Shinobue
A small transverse flute often used in folk music and festivals.
10. 和楽器 (Wagakki) – Japanese traditional musical instruments
The collective term for traditional Japanese musical instruments.
11. 浄瑠璃 (Jōruri) – Jōruri
A form of traditional Japanese narrative music, often accompanied by the shamisen.
12. 能楽 (Nōgaku) – Noh and Kyogen
Traditional Japanese performing arts combining Noh (drama) and Kyogen (comic theater).
13. 狂言 (Kyōgen) – Kyogen
A form of traditional comic theater performed during Noh plays.
14. 四弦琴 (Shigenkin) – Shigenkin
A type of zither with four strings.
15. 扇子 (Sensu) – Sensu
A folding fan used as a prop in traditional Japanese dance and theater.
16. 鈴 (Suzu) – Suzu
A small bell often used in traditional Japanese music and dance.
17. 能管 (Nōkan) – Nōkan
A bamboo flute used in Noh performances.
18. 神楽鈴 (Kagura suzu) – Kagura bell
A bell used in Kagura, a traditional Shinto music and dance performance.
19. 篳篥 (Hichiriki) – Hichiriki
A double-reed wind instrument often used in traditional gagaku court music.
20. 胡弓 (Kokyū) – Kokyū
A traditional Japanese bowed string instrument with a unique sound.
By familiarizing yourself with these traditional instruments, you can deepen your appreciation for the diverse and enchanting world of Japanese music and cultural heritage. These instruments play a crucial role in various traditional performances and have been passed down through generations, preserving Japan’s rich musical traditions.
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