Koto Music of Japan

Disc: 1

1. Rokudan - Zumi-Kai Original Instrumental Group

2. Midare

3. Godan-Kinuta

4. Chidori

5. Haru-No-Kyoku

Disc: 2

1. Jokyoku "Tsuki"-Ranjo

2. Take No Odori

3. Kyu No Mai, Hanagasa No Odori

4. Kurui

5. Inaka-Bue

6. Fumon - Zumi-Kai Original Instrumental Group

7. Genroku Hanami-Odori

8. Take No Uta - Zumi-Kai Original Instrumental Group

9. Sagi-Musume - Zumi-Kai Original Instrumental Group

10. Yuki No Genso - Zumi-Kai Original Instrumental Group

See all 21 tracks on this disc

Koto Music of Japan,Various Artists,Delta,China / Japan / Korea,Int'l & World Music,Japan,Japanese,Pop,World Music

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: 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 Shakuhachi - The Japanese Flute Koto Music of Japan 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 Music for 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: Return of the King of all Koto CDs

The Art of the Koto, Volume 3: Works for Nijugen 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 Similar Items: Art of the Koto, Vol. 2 The Art of the Koto, Volume 1 Music for Koto Lullaby For The Moon : Japanese Music For Koto And Shakuhachi Traditional Vocal And Instrumental Music (Japan) ASIN: B00008MJ9E Release Date: 2003-03-11

Tracks:

1. Tennyo (Miki)
2. Itsutsu No Shohin: Nishikigi Ni Yosete (Nagasawa)
3. Itsutsu No Shohin: Nishikigi Ni Yosete (Nagasawa)
4. Itsutsu No Shohin: Nishikigi Ni Yosete (Nagasawa)
5. Itsutsu No Shohin: Nishikigi Ni Yosete (Nagasawa)
6. Itsutsu No Shohin: Nishikigi Ni Yosete (Nagasawa)
7. Aki-No-Kyoku (Miki)
8. Aki-No-Kyoku (Miki)
9. Nanae (Nishimura)
10. Kamu-Ogi-Guoto (Sato)

Customer Reviews:

Return of the King of all Koto CDs.......2006-05-30

Good things come in 3's, I guess. Like its two predecessors, this is really an excellent CD of koto music, making for an incredible trilogy. Once again, the sound quality is crystal clear, the performances inspired and superb, and the music itself very beautiful--in a rather different way this time. Strange even, but it works all the same.

The prior two "Art of the Koto" CDs covered the historical development of koto music from the 1600's until the early 1900's, and so this album picks up where they left off by covering the innovations of the late twentieth century (from 1969 to 1989). Appropriately enough, all the music here is played on the 21-string koto invented after WWII rather than on the usual 13-string koto. The first track, composed by Miki Minoru (the guy who formed Pro Musica Nipponia, the music group that brought us the great album "Japan: Traditional Vocal and Instrumental Music") is weird and experimental...almost harsh on the ears sometimes. The second piece (five tracks), by Nagasawa Katsutoshi, is hauntingly beautiful and meditative. The third composition (two tracks) is by Miki Minoru again, this time more like the kind of music I'm used to by him, skillfully blending traditional Japanese music with modern musical sensibilities in a new and wonderful synthesis. "Nanae" by Nishimura Akira is somewhat similar to track one: eerie and experimental, abrupt and harsh on the ears in spots but still strangely appealing in a twilight zone way. Finally, Sato Somei's composition is rather alien sounding in a quiet, retro-primitive manner--a creative imagining of what protohistorical Japanese koto music for the deities might have sounded like (talk about full circle). These are all pretty unique selections, too--I doubt you'll ever find them on another CD in the States.

Again as with volumes one and two, the liner notes for this album are incredibly extensive and full of detail. It's wonderfully clear that much effort went into them, and one gets a real crash course in modern koto music from reading along--this is especially important in volume three's case, as this CD covers ground not usually found elsewhere. First we get a good description of the 21-string koto, its invention and history, and its place in the overall development of koto music as a whole. Next each track is introduced and explained in fine, loving detail--including lots of information about each individual composer. And musicological details for the music expert are included as is usual with this series. Finally, each performer is introduced along with a quick summary of her or his career.

Like volumes one and two, this is an excellent CD on all counts. As an album it may very well stand on its own well enough, but listening to it after the prior two volumes is probably better. My sense is that it may be hard to appreciate what the composers and musicians are accomplishing if unaware of the musical tradition they are building upon and innovating in new directions. Also this is very atypical koto music (even the actual instrument is atypical) so I wouldn't recommend this CD as an introduction nor as a first koto CD. If you've listened to volumes one and two or otherwise familiarized yourself with the Japanese koto, though, this stuff will blow you away.

Average customer rating: Glad I got this Heir to the Reigning King of all Koto CDs

Art of the Koto, Vol. 2 Nanae Yoshimura 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 | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Art of the Koto, Volume 1 The Art of the Koto, Volume 3: Works for Nijugen Koto Music of Japan Traditional Vocal And Instrumental Music (Japan) Music for Koto ASIN: B00005O590 Release Date: 2002-05-14

Tracks:

1. Shiki-no-kyoku
2. Hachidan
3. Kaede-no-hana
4. Onoe-no-matsu
5. Seoto
6. Haru-no-umi

Customer Reviews:

Glad I got this.......2007-05-26

I was looking for something new, which I didn't at all know. Something to tickle the back of my head out of its complacency. After reading the reviews of Crazy Fox, this was one of the things I got. I did feel apprehensive about trusting a single voice to be at all accurate, since tastes differ greatly, but I wasn't at all disappointed.

The music remains of consistent quality throughout, sometimes fast paced, sometimes stately, but never unsettling. As such I find it excellent to relax and unwind with.

The booklet explains a fair deal about what is presented, in English which doesn't bear any signs of being written by a first-year student of ESL. It doesn't just name titles, but it also places the music in its proper context and renders a translation of what is sung. Every effort has been made to make this accessible to someone who doesn't speak a single word of Japanese.

The music is very different from European style classical music, and as such takes a bit of effort to wrap one's head around. Once you figure out where the beat is (and it shifts a LOT more than you'd be used to) you start to realize the depth of expression that's being put forth.

The vocals are in a very different style, too, and might take some getting used to if you hear this sort of music for the first time. This is a trip to someone else's beaten track, though, so once you know what to expect of it, it fits in perfectly.

All in all, I feel that if you're looking for something different, finding this will be rewarding. It certainly was for me.

Heir to the Reigning King of all Koto CDs.......2006-05-30

Well, lightning does strike twice. Like its predecessor, this is a truly excellent CD of koto music, and I'd give it six stars if I could. Once again, the sound quality is crystal clear, the performances inspired and superb, and the music itself very beautiful--refined and elegant and yet energetic and alive.

In terms of selection, the first two tracks are classic compositions by Yatsuhashi Kengyo in the 1600's, as with Volume One. This time "Hachidan" is included, forming a set with "Rokudan" and "Midare" on the first volume; then "Shiki no Kyoku", a difficult composition rarely performed nowadays. Then we shift gears and in terms of koto history start where volume one left off, first with a piece by Matsuzaka Harue in the late 1800's and then with three masterpieces by Miyagi Michio in the early twentieth century.

Again as with volume one, the liner notes for this album are incredibly extensive and professional. It's wonderfully clear that much effort went into them, and one gets a real crash course in koto music from reading it--people new to the koto will learn all that's necessary for them to have a pretty good idea what's going on, and people who've loved koto music for ages will yet learn something new (I sure did, anyway). First we get a good description of the instrument and its history, picking up where volume one left off. Next each track is introduced and explained in fine, loving detail. Once again, happily, the lyrics to the vocals on tracks one, three, and four 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. Such a practice is quite a rarity among CDs in this field, so this extra effort and care is remarkable. And musicological details for the music expert are included, too--arcane to an amateur like me, but useful to those with the requisite knowledge, I have no doubt. Finally, each performer is introduced along with a quick summary of her or his career.

In short, this is an excellent CD on all counts. As an album it stands on its own quite well, but listening to it after volume one will increase one's appreciation, too. And both the newly koto-curious and the long-time koto-connoisseur will find something to love about it. Highly recommended.

Average customer rating: Music that mesmerizes

Art of Japanese Koto, Shakuhachi and Shamisen Yamato Ensemble Manufacturer: Arc Music ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Japan | Far East & Asia | International | Styles | Music General | 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: The Art of Japanese Bamboo Flute & Koto Lullaby For The Moon : Japanese Music For Koto And Shakuhachi Traditional Vocal And Instrumental Music (Japan) Japan: Kabuki & Other Traditional Music Shamisen ASIN: B000001IKR Release Date: 1996-11-05

Tracks:

1. Shin Musume Dojoji (The Young Girl of...)
2. Tsuru No Sugomori (Tenderness of Cranes)
3. Yuki (Snow)
4. Hoshun (Springtime)
5. Shikyoku Ichiban (Poem No. 1)
6. Ryukyu Minyo Ni Yoru Kumikyoku (Folksongs...)

Customer Reviews:

Music that mesmerizes.......2000-11-06

I got this CD 4 years ago in a music shop in Istanbul,Turkey.Its my first CD on Japanese chamber music. What captures me is that the CD features music from some of the main musical instruments from Japanese chamber music, namely the shamisen, shakuhachi and the koto, which is quite a good deal. To be truthful, all these instruments actually originated in China,but got to Japan during the Tang Dynasty. One of them, the Shakuhachi (known as 'Chi Ba' in Chinese), is now a lost art in China, and is frequently thought of as being the same as the Chinese bamboo flute. My favourite track is track #4, entitled Hoshun(meaning Spring Time). The music is just hauntingly beautiful.The music of the shakuhachi and the koto do not compete for dominance but just complement and blend with each other so well. The music is simply mesmerizing. I would also like to mention track #2: Tsuru no Sugomori, which means Tenderness of Cranes, a solo performance by the Shakuhachi. The musician actually uses the the technique of koro-koro(double trill) to imitate the crane's call, which is rather fascinating. Although there are only six tracks in this CD, it certainly is a good introduction for music fans who are interested in Japanese chamber music.

Average customer rating: A decent example of the music of the Japanese Koto.

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 $7 - $10 | International General | International | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | International General | International | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | 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: Koto Music of Japan ASIN: B00001NTMO Release Date: 1999-09-28

Tracks:

1. Rokudan - Zumi-Kai Original Instrumental Group
2. Midare
3. Godan-Kinuta
4. Chidori
5. Haru-No-Kyoku

Tracks:

1. Jokyoku "Tsuki" - Ranjo
2. Take No Odori
3. Kyu No Mai, Hanagasa No Odori
4. Kurui
5. Inaka-Bue
6. Fumon - Zumi-Kai Original Instrumental Group
7. Genroku Hanami-Odori
8. Take No Uta - Zumi-Kai Original Instrumental Group
9. Sagi-Musume - Zumi-Kai Original Instrumental Group
10. Yuki No Genso - Zumi-Kai Original Instrumental Group
11. Tori-Kagura
12. Kyo No Yoru
13. Rinmon
14. Ukigomo
15. Akebono-Jishi
16. Musashi No Shirabe
17. Dai-Bosatsu
18. Shin-Getsu
19. Nezasa No Shirabe
20. Netori
21. Kyorei

Customer Reviews:

A decent example of the music of the Japanese Koto........2000-02-21

Upon first hearing this CD, you may find yourself a bit dissapointed with the lack of "character" this CD has, in other words, the songs are pretty much all the same with no song being distinguishable from any other and each consisting of basically 1 note every two seconds performed by musicians that obviously aren't 1st rate koto masters. On the other hand, traditional koto music is based on simplicity, and this CD is the perfect example of simple, it somehow makes you feel like you're in feudal Japan. So in that aspect it isn't a total dissapointment. A good CD for the beginning Asian-music enthusiast, but with this, you kind of get what you pay for.

World Music:

1. La Población [Import]
2. Lapadas Do Povo [Import]
3. Latin Lover [Import]
4. Le Cimetiere Des Arlequins
5. Le Frisur [Import]
6. Le Meilleur De [Import]
7. Le temps des 45 tours v. 2 [IMPORT]
8. Le temps des 45 Tours vol. 4
9. Le temps des 45 Tours vol. 5
10. Lonely Planet V.2 [Import]

World Music

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Tryland

Chopin for Children

Composure

Kaleidoscope [Explicit Lyrics]

Charlie!: Music from the Classic Films of Charles Chaplin

Chabretas Les Cornemuses a Miroirs Du Limousin [Import]

Best of the Best [Import] [Gold CD]

Dilate [Import]

Ave Maria [Import]

Beethoven: Symphonies Nos. 1 & 8; Prometheus Overture

Body and Soul

Barcelona

Big Booty Hits

Final Warning

Capitol Collectors Series