Synopsis

Japanese contemporary music finds itself shaped by Western influences, both in its instrumentation and its stylistic approaches. Yet, the nation possesses a rich musical heritage of its own, a history spanning over a thousand years. This episode of Japanology Plus delves into that tradition, showcasing instruments such as the shamisen, koto, and taiko – each reflecting a distinctive Japanese perception of sound. Joining us is Naoya Mura, a dancer deeply familiar with the diverse forms of traditi