Tegoto: Japanese Koto Music

1. Sea of Spring

2. London No Yoru No Ame

3. Shinsencho Bukyoku

4. Koto Tanshishu

5. Tegoto

6. Mittsu No Dansho

7. Kamimu

8. Midare

Tegoto: Japanese Koto Music,Tomoko Sunazaki,Fortuna Records,Asia,Japan,New Age / Meditation,Pop

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Average customer rating: Good Traditional Japanese music Super-relaxing One of the Best Japanese Music Album's I've found Softener for the ears... Beautiful and Relaxing!

Dinner Classics: The Japanese Album Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music Japan | Far East & Asia | International | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Folk Songs | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | New Age General | New Age | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music $6.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Japanese Melodies for Flute and Harp Lullaby For The Moon : Japanese Music For Koto And Shakuhachi The Very Best of Japanese Music Koto Music of Japan Japanese Melodies ASIN: B0000026XT Release Date: 1990-05-17

Tracks:

1. Sakura, Sakura
2. Chin-Chin-Chidori
3. Yamanakabushi
4. Toryanse (Children's Song)
5. Chidori No Kyoku
6. Defune
7. Oharabushi
8. Shimabara No Komoriuta
9. Imayoh
10. Imayo
11. Chugoko-Chino-No-Komoriuta
12. Jogashima No Ame
13. Haru No Umi
14. Sakura, Sakura

Customer Reviews:

Good Traditional Japanese music.......2007-07-14

This is one of my favorite Japanese albums. If you're into traditional Japanese music this is a CD that you should have. I lost the one that I originally had and I finally bought another one. I couldn't beat the price and I think that this album is great.This is a must have CD if you're into this kind of music or just enjoy a broad spectrum of music.

Super-relaxing.......2007-03-05

A very good introduction to koto music and a lot less cheesy than the concept would suggest. The first track is by far the best.

One of the Best Japanese Music Album's I've found.......2006-11-04

Beautiful selection of Japanese music. Very calming and soothing music. Mainly slow, but does include some quicker pieces of music. Great variety of instruments used such as flute, violin and harpsichord. CD also includes recipe for a Japanese dinner. Great background music for a dinner party. If you like the Soundtrack to Memoirs of a Geisha, you'll enjoy this.

Softener for the ears..........2006-08-26

I am not satisfied with this version of traditional Japanese music at all. In my opinion traditional Japanese music is much more impressive and intense when played on original Japanese instruments. The best example is "Sakura, sakura", one of the most famous Japanese songs. When it is played on Koto and Shakuhachi (Japanese flute) instead of transverse flute it has a different feel and much better quality of expression.

The whole CD is like a softener for an audience which might not be used to a non western sound. At the same time it will get a wrong idea about what Japanese music is and will miss its real quality.

Beautiful and Relaxing!.......2005-07-29

A gentle sample of fine, traditional Japanese music at its best. Highly recommended for the novice - "1st timer" - as well as those of more cultured taste. Hauntingly beautiful.

Average customer rating: A Nice Introduction THIS IS "NEO-TRADITIONAL" JAPANESE AT ITS BEST Lullaby Review Great for relaxation and meditation Wonderful CD

Lullaby For The Moon : Japanese Music For Koto And Shakuhachi Various Artists Manufacturer: Blue Note Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Japan | Far East & Asia | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Japan | Far East | Compilations | International | Styles | Music Blue Note Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Far East & Asia | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Art of Japanese Bamboo Flute & Koto Shakuhachi - The Japanese Flute Koto Music of Japan The Very Best of Japanese Music Dinner Classics: The Japanese Album ASIN: B000005HA7 Release Date: 1998-02-10

Tracks:

1. Komoriuta: Lullaby (Variations)-Hazan Yamamoto, Utazumi Kunishige
2. Toge-Hachi-Ri: Eight Miles through a Mountain Pass-Tozan Tanno, Tozan Hara
3. Kuon No Hikari: Eternal Lights - Hozan Yamamoto, Utazumi Kunishige
4. Umi: Sea Fantasy - Tozan Hara, Soyo Nakamura, Reiko Nakamura, Miyoshi Hoshida
5. Muttsu: Six Fragments For Koto (Variations) - Osamu Shimizu, Keiko Matsuo
6. Sakura: Cherry Blossoms (Trio On A Theme By Sajura) - Kozan Kitahara, Shizuo Aoki
7. Kojo: Moonlight On A Ruined Castle (Variations On A Theme) - Kozan Kitahara, Shizuo
8. Chidori: The Ploughman's Song - Shinzo Miya

Customer Reviews:

A Nice Introduction.......2006-03-23

I purchased this CD in order to find music for a play production set in Japan, and this turned out to be a major source for us. Very pretty and, for a listener unused to Japanese music, perhaps a good entry level disc to purchase as an introduction.

THIS IS "NEO-TRADITIONAL" JAPANESE AT ITS BEST.......2004-04-12

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These songs are "neo-traditional" in that they make use of traditional Japanese instruments along with some that are modern. Occasional electronic sound effects and ones recorded from nature are also used. As has been mentioned in other reviews here, this CD is lacking in true Japanese "traditional" songs. But, there is nothing wrong with that. I don't see the reason for the confusion as nowhere does the album claim to be traditional Japanese. Many of the songs are recent compositions or, as in the case of the beautiful rendition of "Sakura: Cherry Blossoms (Trio on a theme by Sajura)," are modern variations on traditional Japanese themes.

I love traditional Japanese music and have been a listener for quite some time, but many people new to this music may initially like the neo-traditional better because it contains more western structure and complexity and therefore won't provide as stark a contrast to what they've been accustomed to hearing as with true traditional Japanese pieces. If you are looking for Japanese traditional "only" make sure you do some research into the album first. You're always welcome to visit my page by clicking the link on my name above - there you'll find several of my own recommendations for good "traditional only" and/or "neo-traditional" Japanese albums.

These points aside, I think this album is gorgeous. The artists perform spendidly and the music is beautifully meditative. I think the pieces carry on the tradition of the koto and shakuhachi in a noble, though modern, way.

Lullaby Review.......2003-07-13

I bought this CD. I was looking for the CD with Haru No Umi by Michio Miyagi, but this was all I found and picked it.
Frankly, I'm dissapointed at the lack of traditional japanese songs, such as 'Aka Tonbo' or the much beloved 'Haru No Umi', and even 'Kimigayo' and 'Kazoueta'.
I loved the way they did 'Kojou no Tsuki', it sounds haunting as it is supposed to be. I disliked how 'Sakura' was done, as we have sung a better version in my chorus class ;)
However, I thorougly enjoy 'Umi: Sea Fantasy'. It sounds like something that'd be played at a festival. ..and I love the spooky yet sereneness of the shakuhachi in this piece. Overall, the CD is okay, and if you are looking for calm and serene japanese music to listen to or help you fall asleep (i listened to it last night to help me fall asleep), I'd recommend it.

Great for relaxation and meditation.......2003-04-22

We play this CD in our spa. Its great for relaxation, but not rythmic enough for massage. It's great if you like the music in Japanese Restaurants. I personally think its boring, but serves the purpose of relaxation.

Wonderful CD.......2003-03-25

This music truly grows on you-the shakuhachi flute used on these recordings are beautiful- and the koto is pretty good as well. This music is very simple, but very soothing as another viewer put it. It is indeed very good meditation music-or just for listening to while cruising the web-whatever. I myself listen to it some days on my car rides to and from work-helps me unwind a bit if the day was particularly stressful! So if you are a fan of Japanese music-this CD is for you! If you are a fan of Brittany Spears-then this CD is REALLY for you-it will be good therapy. Just an attempt at a joke. Take care my friends

Average customer rating: Destined to be a classic! A big disappointment It' s the Japanese Sandman Exquisite! Beautiful collaboration!

Oyasumi: Japanese Lullabies and Restful Melodies Manufacturer: Koto World ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | New Age | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music General | Children's Music | Styles | Music Lullabies | Children's Music | Styles | Music General | Far East & Asia | International | Styles | Music General | New Age | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | Pop | Indie Music | Stores | Music Far East & Asia | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Best-Loved Children's Songs from Japan Island Dreams - songs and lullabies carried on the wind Japanese Children's Favorite Stories Japanese Children's Favorite Stories, Book 2 The Very Best of Japanese Music ASIN: B00005QB3U Release Date: 2001-09-05

Tracks:

1. Oborozuki yo (Dreamy Moonlit Night)
2. Furusato (My Heart's Home)
3. Sakura, Sakura (Cherry Blossoms)
4. Momiji (Scarlet Leaves)
5. Takeda no Komoriuta (Takeda Lullaby)
6. Aiko's Lullaby
7. Aka Tonbo (Red Dragonfly)
8. Aogeba Tosohi (Song of Gratitude)
9. Umi (Vast Ocean)
10. Mimura nu Angwa (Girls from Three Villages)
11. Hatsu Yuki (First Snow)
12. Kirakira Boshi (Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star)
13. Hama Chidori (Plovers on the Shore)
14. Hagoromo no Komoriuta (Okinawan Lullaby)
15. Komoriuta (Japanese Lullaby)
16. Oyasumi (Goodnight)

Album Description

Winner of both a 2002 NAPPA Gold Award and 2001 Parents' Choice Gold Award. Aiko Shimada (voice) and Elizabeth Falconer (koto) play old songs from Japan; lullabies and age-old favorites that have been used to soothe children and adults alike for centuries. Compellingly understated arrangements bring out the warmth of Shimada's voice and the ephemeral beauty of the 13-string koto. Works sung largely in Japanese, with some English lyrics artfully woven in, but no knowledge of Japanese is necessary to enjoy the beauty of these intimate, nurturing songs.

Customer Reviews:

Destined to be a classic!.......2005-11-07

This CD helped to put my first baby to sleep. Now, it is putting both of my kids to sleep....and sometimes me, too! The singing seems straight from the heart, the arrangements are touching, and I love the lyrics in both Japanese and English. This CD has something to offer everyone, of all ages, of all cultures. It is destined to be a classic.

A big disappointment.......2005-08-27

[...]
I dislike Aiko Shimada's singing style intensely. She slurs the notes in a very annoying way.
This CD is more like new age music than authentic Japanese songs.
Even the koto playing is uninteresting.

It' s the Japanese Sandman.......2003-01-01

Or perhaps it's the Sandwoman--Aiko Shimada (voice) and Elizabeth Falconer (koto) play traditional Japanese lullabies and songs. Ms. Shimada, however, does not employ the traditional Japanese singing technique--a kind of throaty sound mixed with that shrill sound so popular in Asia. Instead, she has an almost Celtic lilt to her voice. These songs seem to evoke night, a ruined castle, ghostly cherry trees in bloom or a pond reflecting a moon behind a cloud. This is a nice CD to play if you love Japanese songs but are not fond of traditional Asian music (I do happen to like the screechy sound of traditional singing, but this is a nice variation.)

This would be a fun CD to use as a bedtime CD for kids, encouraging them to relax and imagine they are drifting off on a barge on a night-dark river. Or good for atmosphere during your next sushi dinner at home. Very pretty stuff.

Exquisite!.......2002-10-12

"Oyasumi" is a very deceptive album: deceptive in its simplicity, that is. Like most folkloric music, the songs on this CD are deeply rooted in experiences common to all people, and their emotional impact is complex, subtle and very powerful.

I first heard sound clips from this recording in the wake of the horrific events of 9/11. I listened to the clips again and again, deeply moved by the beauty of Aiko Shimada's voice and Elizabeth Falconer's work on koto. The creativity and undertone of joy broke through the pain and brought new hope. (This in the midst of constant military surveillance flights in the airspace surrounding the Pentagon, and a pall of silence in an otherwise lively neighborhood...)

My initial impressions haven't changed, though my appreciation for what Falconer and Shimada have achieved grows deeper each time I listen to the CD. Both women are master musicians, but the chemistry here is something unusual - and lasting. All of the tracks reach the very high standard set by their creators, making it very difficult to choose the so-called "best." However, my top picks include "Mimura nu Angwa," "Hagoromo no Komoriuta" (traditional Okinawan songs), an extremely elegant reworking of "Sakura, Sakura," and two original compositions by Falconer and Shimada respectively: "Hatsu Yuki" and "Aiko's Lullaby." I'm sure you'll find your own favorites soon enough...

Beautiful collaboration!.......2001-10-19

A mesmerizing, vey relaxing compilation of songs sung in Japanese and English. Some interpret classic folk tunes, some are modern original ballads (a la Jewel or Tracy Chapman). All feature Ms. Shimada's spectacularly clear, pure, delicate voice, accompanied by the sonorous rainwater sounds of Ms. Falconer's koto. The harmonies are delightful and enchanting.
Even without knowing the lyrics (which can be accessed on their website), you'll be able to hum along with many of them, and the language exposure is wonderful for young minds! The CD is long enough that even an energetic little one will slow down by the end. My 18-month old was completely transfixed for the first 3 or 4 songs at least, and on subsequent days would hand me the case as a hint to play it, even at bathtime.
With songs about dragonflies, cherry blossoms, stars and the ocean, one's spirit feels charmed, lightened and youthful; and yet there is also a deep wisdom and connectedness to nature and culture in these traditional sounds that have probably soothed generations.

Average customer rating: Not so fast ROCK ON!!!!! Koto Music Of Japan CD reissue of a good LP

Koto Music of Japan Various Artists Manufacturer: Delta ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Japan | Far East & Asia | International | Styles | Music General | Far East & Asia | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Japan | Far East | Compilations | International | Styles | Music CDs Under $7 | International General | International | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | International General | International | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs Under $7 | Far East & Asia | International | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Far East & Asia | International | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music 4-for-3 International | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Lullaby For The Moon : Japanese Music For Koto And Shakuhachi The Art of Japanese Bamboo Flute & Koto Traditional Vocal And Instrumental Music (Japan) Shakuhachi - The Japanese Flute Dinner Classics: The Japanese Album ASIN: B000001V42 Release Date: 1993-07-20

Tracks:

1. Rokudan
2. Midare
3. Godan-Kinuta
4. Chidori
5. Haru-No-Kyoku

Customer Reviews:

Not so fast.......2006-07-05

This album was also re-released on the legacy label and is reviewed here at under the same album name - [...]

Assuming this CD lacks the problems described by a reviewer for the other release, then I agree with the other reviewers for this CD. The quality of performance is not quite as high as some other offerings, but the pieces aren't difficult or complex. The album is very enjoyable, despite whatever flaws, real or imagined.

ROCK ON!!!!!.......2005-03-21

These guy shred with the best! Honestly- this music has a certain effect on me and will on you as well.

Koto Music Of Japan.......2000-06-08

A great primer for traditional Japanese music. Very relaxing.

CD reissue of a good LP.......1999-11-12

Budget labels like Laserlight can be a real mixed bag, sometimes the worst touristy garbage, but sometimes high quality music originally issued by smaller independent labels. This album was originally issued as Everest 3206 - "Classical Japanese Koto Music", probably 30+ years ago. This is one of Laserlight's bargains.

Average customer rating: Very nice, but I think I may be cured japanese Flute A peek into the Japanese concept of musical composition Instant Tranquility It's A Goodie!

The Art of Japanese Bamboo Flute & Koto Yamato Ensemble With Richard Stagg Manufacturer: Arc Music ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Japan | Far East & Asia | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Far East & Asia | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Lullaby For The Moon : Japanese Music For Koto And Shakuhachi Koto Music of Japan Shakuhachi - The Japanese Flute Traditional Vocal And Instrumental Music (Japan) The Very Best of Japanese Music ASIN: B000001IHL Release Date: 1994-06-21

Tracks:

1. Hachidan
2. Zangetsu
3. Shika No Tone
4. Yaegoromo
5. Yamaji

Customer Reviews:

Very nice, but I think I may be cured.......2007-01-12

This review is about me. I think I'm finally cured of trying to get in touch with the real Japan through its music. I think I became part of a bubble where people like me create a demand and other people, with the best of intentions, do their best to satisfy it, and together we float off to God knows where. I guess for me the bubble just burst. Partly what burst it was noticing how much supposedly traditional Japanese music consisted of variations on traditional melodies. It is possible that that's authentic, but I suspected it had more to do with the musicians than the music. It sowed doubts and pricked the bubble. All this is no fault of this fine recording.

japanese Flute.......2006-03-23

G'day, I teach T'ai Chi and the sound work's well for my teaching.

Cheers Joseph a bit over 13 hitting 74 and going well.

A peek into the Japanese concept of musical composition.......2002-09-12

On this CD, the shakuhachi (bamboo flute) and koto (Japanese stringed banjo) are played in such a way that one instrument trails the other in an interesting way. The music on this CD brings to light the different mentality of Japanese music; whereas Western harmony plays simultaneously, perhaps in counterpoint, the Japanese concept of composition staggers the musical line in time, so that one instrument follows the lead of the other--a bit like "Row Row Row Your Boat" (a canon or round) but not exactly. It's more like jazz improvisation, where the lead instrument of the moment, takes the rest of the combo on a musical ride.

It's hard to write about what you hear, but I liked this CD and found real insight into some aspects of Japanese music. Fascinating.

Instant Tranquility.......2000-09-29

This is just a great CD. Whenever I need to restore inner harmony after work, or dealing with any upsetting situation, this is the one I go to. Instantly I am transported to the calm, soothing setting of a traditional Japanese house and garden. It is fantastic for meditation, too. Let all the nonessentials of life slip away while you listen to this beautiful recording.

It's A Goodie!.......2000-04-30

One of my favorite CDs. Light some incense and get ready to be transported to Japan. Ideal for meditation or just soothing background music, this CD is a must for anyone who has wondered where to buy the type of music typically heard in Japanese restaurants. It produces a calming effect being that this CD has no "screeching" licks -- a trait which sometimes characterizes music performed on the Koto. This CD would also help create superb ambiance at your next sushi party! While (it is fairly obvious) I am not versed in Japanese music, I know that I love this CD. You will not be disappointed.

Average customer rating: The Best Available The Reigning King of all Koto CDs Exceptional clarity, nuance and rare beauty

The Art of the Koto, Volume 1 Nanae Yoshimura Manufacturer: Celestial Harmonies ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Japan | Far East & Asia | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Art of the Koto, Vol. 2 The Art of the Koto, Volume 3: Works for Nijugen Traditional Vocal And Instrumental Music (Japan) Koto Music of Japan The Art of Japanese Bamboo Flute & Koto ASIN: B00004X0T4 Release Date: 2000-08-01

Tracks:

1. Rokudan
2. Midare
3. Zangetsu
4. Godan-ginuta
5. Chidori

Customer Reviews:

The Best Available.......2006-06-21

The selections on this release are excellent, and the quality of sound is quite good. Yoshimura is talented. At times her performance is somewhat cooler and less inspired than other renderings I have heard. In my opinion, the best recorded koto music is from a Nonesuch Explorer Series LP which never made it to CD format. It's also available as an audio cassette. How unfortunate. Still I recommend looking for it. It's entitled: The Koto Music of Japan, performed by masters Hagiwara, Hatta, Kitagawa, and Kikusui. It is exquisite. Don't be fooled by two releases currently available that have the same title. The other Nonesuch releases by Ensemble Nipponia are also very good.

The Reigning King of all Koto CDs.......2006-05-29

This is without doubt one of the best CDs of Japanese koto music out there; I'd give it six stars if I could. The sound quality is crystal clear, the performances inspired and superb, and the music simply beautiful to hear. Most of the selections on this CD are solid classics, standard pieces in the koto repertoire, so as a long-time fan of the koto I've heard many of them before, but the versions on this disc are such excellent renditions that they really came alive.

In terms of the selection, the first two tracks are compositions by Yatsuhashi Kengyo in the 1600's, and more or less mark the origins of koto music as we know it today. Track three moves us into the 1700's with a work by Mitsuzaki Koto, representing developments in koto music from the Osaka scene of the time. Tracks four and five feature developments during the mid-1800's with the work of Mitsuzaki Kengyo and Yoshizawa Kengyo. Again, all five are classics in their own right.

The liner notes for this album are the most extensive I've ever seen for a CD of Japanese music. It is readily apparent that a lot of work went into them, and one gets a real crash course in koto music from reading it--people new to the koto will learn what they need so as to have a pretty good idea what they're listening to, and people who've loved koto music for ages will still probably learn something new (I sure did, anyway). First the historical context of the music is quickly sketched, and then a succinct description of the instrument and its history (keyed to the music pieces on this disc) is given. Next each track is introduced and explained in fine, loving detail (and the main performer relates her rationale for the selection). Even the lyrics to the vocals on tracks three and five are given: first in the original Japanese (transcribed in romanji), then in a literal word-for-word translation, and then afterwards in a smooth idiomatic English rendition. So few CDs bother to do this; I was happily impressed. Musicological details for the music expert are included, too. Finally, each performer is introduced along with a quick summary of her career.

If you are new to the koto, this is definitely the best CD with which to start. But if you're a long-time koto fan don't pass this excellent CD up just because you already have "Rokudan"--I made that mistake for a while, and I'm glad I changed my mind and gave this CD a try. It will make you fall in love with the koto all over again.

Exceptional clarity, nuance and rare beauty.......2002-07-09

I have more than three dozen recordings of traditional Japanese music in my collection, and this is one that stands out for its purity, musicality and outstanding recording quality. Yoshimura's playing is always definitive, subtle and highly nuanced. "Chidori" is particularly beautiful, with the instruments and vocals carefully placed in the stereo field to evoke a strong sense of live presence. If you can only afford one recording of koto music, buy this one.

Average customer rating: A Classic CD of Contemporary Koto Music First class playing

Music for Koto Reiko Kimura & Tadashi Tajima Manufacturer: Celestial Harmonies ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Japan | Far East & Asia | International | Styles | Music General | Far East & Asia | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music New Age | Indie Music | Stores | Music | Ambient | Celtic | Environmental | General | International | Jazz | Meditation Music | Piano | World Dance General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Art of the Koto, Volume 3: Works for Nijugen The Art of the Koto, Volume 1 Art of the Koto, Vol. 2 Lullaby For The Moon : Japanese Music For Koto And Shakuhachi Koto Music of Japan ASIN: B000056VCW Release Date: 2001-01-16

Tracks:

1. Midare
2. Shikyoku Ichiban (Poeme)
3. Rhapsody For Twenty-String Koto Solo
4. Higashi Kara (From The East)
5. Ame No Uta (A Poem Of The Rain)

Customer Reviews:

A Classic CD of Contemporary Koto Music.......2006-06-09

Well, the folks at Celestial Harmonies have done it again. Having already treated us to "The Art of the Koto" in three volumes, now they bring us this interesting, unique, and overall very nice CD of koto music. The performance is top-notch, the music is beautiful, and the crystal-clear sound quality brings these traits out to the full.

The focus of this CD is on contemporary koto music, making it somewhat similar to "The Art of the Koto (Volume 3)" in some ways, though it is not exclusively concerned with the 21-string koto as that CD is. Still, the 21-stringer shows up here along with the good old 13-string standard, which makes for a pleasant variety of sound. Track 1 is an old classic from the 1600's, but it is a favorite of the contemporary repertoire and so is included here (it also serves to give some context to the rest of the album). All the other tracks range in time from 1969 to as late as 1999. Matsumura Teizo's piece on track 2 manages to capture the feel of classical koto music in a way that is fresh rather then repetitive, while Miki Minoru's two compositions (Tracks 3 & 4) highlight his versatility and innovative flair--the incorporation of Javanese Gamelan music in "Higashi Kara" is especially striking. Finally, the subtle wistfulness of Sato Yoko's "Ame no Uta" (track 5) is incredibly moving; we can rest assured that the future of koto music is in good hands.

As with the other CDs by this company, the liner notes leave nothing to be desired. The context of the music featured on the disc and the development of different koto models in the twentieth century are aptly explained, and each track is discussed in detail suitable both to the casual listener and the music expert--including a brief description of the composer. Finally, a full bio on the careers of the two performers (mainly Kimura Reiko on koto but also Tajima Tadashi on shakuhachi flute for the second track) rounds it out. Heck, even the artwork on the cover gets a quick paragraph. All of this is a fine testament to the seriousness with which this product has been put together.

Unlike the "Art of the Koto (Volume 3)" which is a bit more esoteric, this CD stands alone fine and is a great sample of contemporary koto music. I can highly recommend it both to the long time koto-connoisseur and to the first-time listener.

First class playing.......2001-08-01

An excellently produced and presented recording of pieces from the classical to modern repertoire. Whoever put in the data for the names of pieces given above has played a nasty joke on the performer, since the fourth piece should be 'From the East,' not 'From the Easter Parade.' Doesn't anyone check these things?

Average customer rating: Roly Poly Fun!

Hana and the Dragon and other tales from Japan Elizabeth Falconer Manufacturer: Koto World ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Children's Music | Styles | Music General | Children's Music | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | Jazz | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Plum Boy! and other tales from Japan Once Up On A Lilypad Little Pink Fish Under the Cherry Blossom Tree: An Old Japanese Tale Crow Boy (Picture Puffins) ASIN: B000059GYA Release Date: 2001-01-15

Tracks:

1. Hana and the Dragon
2. Grow, Nose, Grow!
3. Rabbit and Crocodile
4. Roly-Poly Rice Ball
5. The Magic Seashell
6. Hana's Dream (Instrumental)

Album Description

Winner of both Parents' Choice Silver and Storytelling World Honors Awards! Enchanting Japanese folktales told with warmth and humor by Elizabeth Falconer. With her creative adaptations and her 13-string Japanese koto to accompany the stories, storytelling and music rise to new heights. Hear the koto as a runaway riceball, dragon'e wings, rolling waves and more. This collection features stories of friendship, sharing, and trust. Suitable for listeners 5 and up.

Customer Reviews:

Roly Poly Fun!.......2002-12-18

What a delightful recording! My kids love it. My daughter's favorite is the one about the runaway rice ball. Her younger brother's favorite is called "Grow Nose, Grow," which stars a Japanese badger named Mr. Tanuki. They have been singing the catchy "Bean Jam Sweets" tune for days now. We have it in the car and have been listening to it all over town. Personally, I love the sound of the koto - it adds a lot of atmosphere to the stories.

Average customer rating:

Japanese Traditional Koto and Shakuhachi Music Satomi Saeki , and Alcvin Takegawa Ramos Manufacturer: Oliver Sudden Productions Inc. ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Japan | Far East & Asia | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music International Folk | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | New Age | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Art of the Koto, Volume 1 Art of the Koto, Vol. 2 Traditional Japanese Music Traditional Vocal And Instrumental Music (Japan) Eastwind: Japanese Shakuhachi Music ASIN: B000CQNIHY Release Date: 2005-12-06

Tracks:

1. Chidori no Kyoku (Song of the Plover) Traditional
2. Seki Setsu (Meditation on Rocks and Snow)
3. Aki no Koto no Ha Traditional
4. Rokudan (Etude in Six Movements) Traditional
5. Sagano
6. Shoganken Reibo (Yearning for the Bell of the Pine Boulder Temple)
7. Midare Traditional
8. Fuyu Momiji (Winter Maple)

Product Description

Enjoy the soothing sounds of Japanese traditional koto and shakuhachi music as performed by Satomi Saeki & Alcvin Takegawa Ramos. This digital recording is accompanied by a 16 page booklet in English and French.

Average customer rating: NEO-TRADITIONAL JAPANESE ON TRADITIONAL INSTRUMENTS . . . Masters of Zen

Masters of Zen (Koto Shakuhachi) Various Artists Manufacturer: Playasound ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Japan | Far East & Asia | International | Styles | Music General | Far East & Asia | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Lullaby For The Moon : Japanese Music For Koto And Shakuhachi Komuso: The Healing Art of Zen Shakuhachi Meditation Music The Art of the Shakuhachi, Volume One Shakuhachi - The Japanese Flute ASIN: B000005G2G Release Date: 1995-11-20

Tracks:

1. Emu - H. Kuribayashi/K. Sugawara
2. Aika - K. Nakagawa/R. Yonemura
3. Hoshun - S. Ikegami/S. Matsuda
4. Ame - Y. Noguchi/S. Matsuda
5. Tanshi - E. Takezawa/M. Yagi/K. Sugawara
6. Tanshi - E. Takezawa/M. Yagi/K. Sugawara
7. Star Dust - H. Hamano/K. Nakagawa/H. Baba/R. Yonemura
8. Kaze No Uta - Y. Nishi/K. Sugawara

Customer Reviews:

NEO-TRADITIONAL JAPANESE ON TRADITIONAL INSTRUMENTS . . ........2004-04-12

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This album was my introduction to Japanese music and I continue to consider it one of the best. Most of the music is neo-traditional and by that I mean music composed by contemporary artists. Not completely devoid of western influence, neo-traditional Japanese continues in the classical Japanese tradition though the melodies are more complex. The pieces on this CD are played on koto (stringed instrument) and shakuhachi (flute). The shamisen (3 stringed instrument) is used along with the other two in the rendition of Star Dust. This is most definitely a 5 star album. All songs are very soothing and restful.

Masters of Zen.......2003-12-10

This has long been one of my favorite albums to listen to while drinking green tea and snacking on wagashi. It's a great album. Quiet, never intrusive and always magical. If you are making a romantic Japanese dinner for someone, play this in the background. It's sure to please.

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3. Tracks in Time
4. Twelve Tribes
5. Visions & Encounters [Import]
6. Waterfall Suite
7. Wellspring
8. A Way of Life
9. America Latina, Vol. 2
10. Arctic Refuge: A Gathering of Tribes

Meditation Music

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Meditation Music

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Text Pieces I: Series Re Morris Graves

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