The koto is one of the iconic instruments of Japanese music. Long zither with pinched strings, it is often called “Japanese harp” because of its sweet and enchanting sound. This article offers a complete exploration of its history, its manufacture, its traditional and modern use, and its place in Japanese culture.
Chinese origins and Japanese adaptation
The koto comes from Chinese stringed instruments imported into Japan around the 8th century, at the time of Nara Imperial Court. First integrated into thegagaku, codified and solemn court music, it was part of a set of instruments like thebiwa,shōandhichiriki. At that time, the koto was used by a small elite, mainly as a support for official ceremonies and performances.
It was only from the Edo era that the koto became democratic. Blind musician Yatsuhashi Kengyo plays a key role in this transition. It composes popular works adapted to the public and gives the koto a new melodic structure, breaking with the strict repertoire of thegagaku. The songRokudan no shirabeThis is one of the most famous examples, still taught today to advanced students.
Description and manufacture of the koto
A traditional koto is about 1.80 meters long for 20 to 25 centimetres wide. Its resonance box, slightly curved, is carved in paulownia wood, a tree renowned for its light and resonant acoustic properties. The instrument has 13 strings stretched in parallel along the length, each resting on a mobile easel calledji. These easels allow to change the pitch of the sounds.
Historically, the ropes were made of silk and ivory easels. Today, they are often made of plastic or wood, and the ropes can be made of nylon for greater durability. Some modern models have more than 13 strings: 17, 21, 25, up to 32 for more complex contemporary pieces.
The coupling is done by moving the easels, not by changing the tension of the strings as on a guitar. This system gives the koto a stable stamp, but requires greater precision on the part of the musician.
Game techniques
The koto is traditionally played on the ground, in positionseizalegs folded under the body. Since the late 19th century, especially under the influence of the westernization of the Meiji era, the instrument is often slightly raised by two supports, allowing the musician to sit more comfortably, sometimes on a bass chair.
The game is done using three plectres (tabs) fixed to the thumb, the index finger and the right hand major. These plectres were once made of ivory or bone, now made of resin or plastic. They are used to pinch the ropes, each producing a different note depending on the position of the easel.
The left hand intervenes to change the tension of the rope to the left of the easel, allowing to alter the note by pressure or relaxation. This technique produces glissando or vibrato effects very characteristic of the koto. Unlike other instruments, there is no “left-handed” koto: all players use the same layout.
The beginner’s koto
The koto has this characteristic of being both very complex to master at high level, but relatively accessible to beginners. A simplified partition, such as that ofSakura, allows a student to produce a recognizable melody in only thirty minutes of practice. This accessibility is based on a simple notation: the thirteen strings are numbered from 1 to 10 and then named with specific ideograms for strings 11 to 13.
The partitions indicate directly which rope to pinch, which reduces the barrier of reading notes. This system is particularly suitable for learning in schools, where koto is taught from primary school in Japan.
Variances and contemporary developments
The instrument has undergone many changes over time. In the 1920s, composer Michio Miyagi created a 17-string koto, designed to produce more serious sounds. Keiko Nosaka, another important figure, later developed kotos at 20 then 25 strings, extending the melodic register considerably.
Several contemporary works and styles merge the koto with Western instruments such as piano, violin or guitar. Some musicians move the easels in full concert to change the tuning, creating dynamic and spectacular effects.
Place of the koto in Japanese culture
The koto remains associated with classical arts such as thekabukiandBunraku, where it accompanies recitations and dramatic scenes. It is also part of the geisha repertoire, alongside theshamisenandshakuhachi.
In popular culture, the koto is found in animes, video games and manga. For example, mangaSounds of Lifefollows a group of students passionate about koto participating in school competitions. This modern use has contributed to a renewed interest in the instrument among younger generations.
Instruments related to the koto
The koto belongs to a large family of cithars in East Asia. He is close to theGuzhengChinese,gayageumKorea and thedan tranhVietnamese. Japan also has several local variants, such asyakumogotowith two strings oryamatogotoA six-string archaic koto.
These instruments share common principles but differ in their construction, repertoire and symbolism. Their study provides a better understanding of cultural exchanges between Asian countries and how Japan has adapted these influences to create a unique musical art.
Practice Koto today in Japan
There are many workshops where the koto can be started, notably in Kyoto, Tokyo and Hiroshima. Some traditional music schools offer one-time courses or one-day courses with instrument loans. It is also possible to attend concerts or demonstrations, especially in temples, museums or festivals dedicated to Japanese culture.
Koto practice does not require prior musical knowledge. While traveling, participating in a koto workshop is a great way to become familiar with Japanese sound aesthetics and to understand a less well-known aspect of its living heritage.
The koto is much more than an ancient instrument: it is a living witness to Japanese musical history, constantly adapting, accessible and fascinating. His beauty lies in the simplicity of his lines and in the richness of emotions he can express with only a few strings. For those who want to discover Japan in depth, the koto offers a unique access key to the heart of its artistic sensitivity.
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