Download or read book The Shamisen written by Henry Mabley Johnson and published by . This book was released on 2010 with total page 170 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The shamisen is a traditional Japanese musical instrument. It was introduced to Japan in the mid-sixteenth century via China and the Ryûkyû Islands, and was quickly established as a culturally significant musical instrument in its new context. The instrument - a three-string lute - developed numerous styles of performance and is found as a solo and ensemble instrument in diverse social and cultural contexts. The shamisen is known as an instrument of geisha in the entertainment districts; it is used in kabuki and bunraku theatre; and also has an established place within a wide-range of performance traditions, many of which are depicted in woodblock prints and other art depicting everyday life of the Edo period. This book, which is based on the author's field research in Japan, is a history of the shamisen. It locates the instrument within its various social and cultural contexts, and includes accompanying illustrations (e.g., woodblock prints, photographs and illustrations) to help show visually the place of the instrument in traditional and modern Japan.
Download or read book Snakeskin Shamisen written by Naomi Hirahara and published by Delta. This book was released on 2006-04-25 with total page 274 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: From Summer of the Big Bachi to Gasa-Gasa Girl, Naomi Hirahara’s acclaimed novels have featured one of mystery fiction’s most unique heroes: Mas Arai, a curmudgeonly L.A. gardener, Hiroshima survivor, and inveterate gambler. Few things get Mas more excited than gambling, so when he hears about a $500,000 win–from a novelty slot machine!–he’s torn between admiration and derision. But the stakes are quickly raised when the winner, a friend of Mas’s pal G. I. Hasuike, is found stabbed to death just days later. The last thing Mas wants to do is stick his nose in someone else’s business, but at G.I.’s prodding he reluctantly agrees to follow the trail of a battered snakeskin shamisen (a traditional Okinawan musical instrument) left at the scene of the crime…and suddenly finds himself caught up in a dark mystery that reaches from the islands of Okinawa to the streets of L.A.–a world of heartbreaking memories, deception, and murder.
Download or read book Japanese Music Musical Instruments written by William P. Malm and published by Tuttle Publishing. This book was released on 1990-06-15 with total page 317 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This interesting and authoritative book includes essential facts about the various forms of Japanese music and musical instruments and their place in the overall history of Japan. Japanese Music and Musical Instruments has three main orientations: The history of Japanese music Construction of the instruments Analysis of the music itself. The book covers in a lucidly written text and a wealth of fascinating photographs and drawings the main forms of musical expression. Many readers will find the useful hints on purchasing instruments, records, and books especially valuable, and for those who wish to pursue the matter further there is a selected bibliography and a guide to Tokyo's somewhat hidden world of Japanese music. It will be found an invaluable aid to the understanding and appreciation of an important, but little-known, and fascinating aspect of Japanese culture.
Download or read book Japan s Musical Tradition written by Miyuki Yoshikami and published by McFarland. This book was released on 2020-02-21 with total page 252 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: What makes Japanese music sound Japanese? Each genre of Japan's pre-Western music (hogaku) morphed from the preceding one with singing at its foundation. In ancient Shinto prayers, words of power recited in a prescribed cadence communicated veneration and community needs to the divine spirit (kami). From the prayers, Japan's word-based music evolved into increasingly more sophisticated recitations with biwa, shamisen, and koto accompaniment. This examination reveals shortcomings in the typical interpretation of Japanese music from a pitch-based Western perspective and carefully explores how the quintessential musical elements of singing, instrumental accompaniment, scale, and format were transmitted from their Shinto inception through all of Japan's music. Japan's culture, with its unique iemoto system and teaching methods, served to exactly replicate Japan's music for centuries. Considering Japan's music in the context of its own culture, logic, and sources is essential to gaining a clear understanding and appreciation of Japan's music and dissipating the mystery of the music's "Japaneseness." Greater enjoyment of the music inevitably follows.
Download or read book The Koto written by Henry Mabley Johnson and published by Hotei Publishing. This book was released on 2004 with total page 208 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Henry Johnson is an ethnomusicologist at the University of Otago, New Zealand, where he teaches and undertakes research in Ethnomusicology and Asian Studies.
Download or read book Japanese Tattoos written by Brian Ashcraft and published by Tuttle Publishing. This book was released on 2016-07-12 with total page 163 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Thinking of getting a Japanese-style tattoo? Want to avoid a permanent mistake? Japanese Tattoos is an insider's look at the world of Japanese irezumi (tattoos). Japanese Tattoos explains the imagery featured in Japanese tattoos so that readers can avoid getting ink they don't understand or, worse, that they'll regret. This photo-heavy book will also trace the history of Japanese tattooing, putting the iconography and kanji symbols in their proper context so readers will be better informed as to what they mean and have a deeper understanding of irezumi. Tattoos featured will range from traditional tebori (hand-poked) and kanji tattoos to anime-inspired and modern works--as well as everything in between. For the first time, Japanese tattooing will be put together in a visually attractive, informative, and authoritative way. Along with the 350+ photos of tattoos, Japanese Tattoos will also feature interviews with Japanese tattoo artists on a variety of topics. What's more, there will be interviews with clients, who are typically overlooked in similar books, allowing them to discuss what their Japanese tattoos mean to them. Those who read this informative tattoo guide will be more knowledgeable about Japanese tattoos should they want to get inked or if they are simply interested in Japanese art and culture.
Download or read book Composing for Japanese Instruments written by Minoru Miki and published by University Rochester Press. This book was released on 2008 with total page 290 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The unique sounds of the biwa, shamisen, and other traditional instruments from Japan are heard more and more often in works for the concert hall and opera house. Composing for Japanese Instruments is a practical orchestration/instrumentation manual with contextual and relevant historical information for composers who wish to learn how to compose for traditional Japanese instruments. Widely regarded as the authoritative text on the subject in Japan and China, it contains hundreds of musical examples, diagrams, photographs, and fingering charts, and comes complete with two accompanying compact discs of musical examples. Its author, Minoru Miki, is a composer of international renown and is recognized in Japan as a pioneer in writing for Japanese traditional instruments. The book contains valuable appendices, one of works Miki himself has composed using Japanese traditional instruments, and one of works by other composers -- including Toru Takemitsu and Henry Cowell -- using Japanese traditional instruments. Marty Regan is Assistant Professor of Music at Texas A&M University; Philip Flavin is a Research Fellow in the School of Languages, Cultures and Linguistics at Monash University, Australia.
Download or read book Jiuta S kyoku Lyrics and Explanations written by Christopher Yohmei Blasdel and published by Taylor & Francis. This book was released on 2024-05-09 with total page 411 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Jiuta Sōkyoku Lyrics and Explanations is a compendium of seventy-three representative songs from the well-known genre of traditional Japanese Edo-period sankyoku ensemble music. Including extensive annotations along with commentaries and notes on their musical and performative aspects, the collection begins with an overview which traces the history of the jiuta sōkyoku genre and the various socio-political influences at work in its formation. The translations and analyses are followed by a substantive glossary and bibliography, allowing for a deeper understanding of both the literary and musical aspects of jiuta sōkyoku compositions. Jiuta Sōkyoku Lyrics and Explanations is a comprehensive anthology that will be of great interest to researchers, including ethnomusicologists, Japanese studies scholars and poetry lovers who are fascinated with the literary and musical impact of the Edo period.
Download or read book Japanese Singers of Tales Ten Centuries of Performed Narrative written by Dr Alison McQueen Tokita and published by Ashgate Publishing, Ltd.. This book was released on 2015-03-28 with total page 311 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Alison Tokita presents a series of case studies that demonstrate the persistence of Japanese sung narratives in a multiplicity of genres over ten centuries together with factors contributing to change in narrative performance. Narratives that were continually re-told and recycled in different versions and formats over a long period of time served to build people's sense of a common identity over space (the geographical extent of 'Japan') and time (the enduring power of many specific narratives). The elements of variation and change relate to the move away from oral narrative to text-based performance, and from a simple narrative situation with one performer to complex theatrical narratives with dancers, singers and other musicians. Tokita includes substantial musical analysis and exploration of theoretical issues, as well as documentation of important performance traditions, all of which are extant.
Download or read book Traditional Japanese Arts and Culture written by Stephen Addiss and published by University of Hawaii Press. This book was released on 2006-02-28 with total page 274 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: "This admirable and necessary volume allows the original writers to speak to us directly. Though all this is carefully documented, we are at the same time spared any layers of scholarly interpretation. Rather, the richness of the original reaches us complete." —Donald Richie, Japan Times, May 14, 2006 Japanese artists, musicians, actors, and authors have written much over the centuries about the creation, meaning, and appreciation of various arts. Most of these works, however, are scattered among countless hard-to-find sources or make only a fleeting appearance in books devoted to other subjects. Compiled in this volume is a wealth of original material on Japanese arts and culture from the prehistoric era to the Meiji Restoration (1867). These carefully selected sources, including many translated here for the first time, are placed in their historical context and outfitted with brief commentaries, allowing the reader to make connections to larger concepts and values found in Japanese culture. The book is a treasure trove of material on the visual and literary arts, but it contains as well primary texts on topics not easily classified in Western categories, such as the martial and culinary arts, the art of tea, and flower arranging. More than 60 color and black and white illustrations enrich the collection and provide further insights into Japanese artistic and cultural values.
Download or read book written by 曽根田憲三 and published by ベレ出版. This book was released on 2006-11-25 with total page 374 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: 外国人との会話で頻繁に出てくる「日本」についての表現集。
Download or read book Ko Uta Little Songs of the Geisha World written by Liza Crihfield and published by Tuttle Publishing. This book was released on 2016-02-03 with total page 107 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This book of Japanese poetry and lyrics explores a little-known style of Japanese song called Ko-Uta. A Ko-Uta is translated as "little song" in Japanese. Unfamiliar to most Westerners, ko-uta are particularly in tune with the tradition of Japan's Edo-era merchants. Some ko-uta are aesthetic, many are earthy. Ko-uta are sung to the accompaniment of the shamisen—a traditional, three-stringed Japanese lute. Ko-uta come to life when they are sung, and the best example of where they live is in the geisha world. To help give some idea of the geisha world, this Japanese music book has provided a complete score of one song. Readers with some experience with haiku and other forms of Japanese poetry will find that ko-uta share many things with those forms. Yet, ko-uta retain their own unique interest, making this book a fascinating addition to any collection of Japanese literature or art.
Download or read book Let s Learn 55 Profound Self Healing Techniques written by Rhonda Morris and published by Rhonda Morris. This book was released on 2024-05-30 with total page 150 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Are you ready to take control of your well-being and unlock the secrets to a healthier, happier life? This comprehensive guide is designed to help you improve your coping skills, develop emotional resilience, promote relaxation, and adopt a holistic approach to health. In this book, I share 55 powerful techniques for self-healing, blending ancient wisdom with modern insights. Whether you're new to self-care or looking to deepen your practice, this book offers practical steps and actionable strategies that you can start using today. A) With this book, you can: 1) Improve Coping Skills: Life can be challenging, but you can navigate any obstacle with the right tools. This book teaches you how to manage stress, anxiety, and emotional turbulence. From mindfulness meditation to cognitive reframing, these techniques will help you handle life's ups and downs gracefully and confidently. 2) Develop Emotional Resilience: Building emotional resilience is key to bouncing back from setbacks and maintaining a positive outlook. This book provides you with exercises and practices to strengthen your mental and emotional fortitude. Learn how to cultivate a growth mindset, enhance your emotional intelligence, and turn adversity into opportunity. 3) Promote Relaxation: In our fast-paced world, relaxation is essential for maintaining balance and well-being. Discover techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, and aromatherapy that will help you unwind and recharge. These practices are designed to reduce tension, improve sleep quality, and bring a sense of peace and calm into your daily life. 4) Adopt a Holistic Approach to Health: True health is more than just physical well-being; it's a harmonious balance of mind, body, and spirit. This book encourages you to embrace a holistic lifestyle that nurtures all aspects of your being. Explore the benefits of practices like yoga, tai chi, and qigong, and learn how to integrate them into your routine for a more balanced and fulfilling life. B) Throughout the book, you'll find: 1) Detailed Instructions: Each technique is explained in clear, step-by-step detail, making it easy to follow and implement. 2) Practical Tips: Get practical advice on how to overcome common obstacles and stay motivated on your self-healing journey. 3) Scientific Insights: Understand the science behind each technique and how it benefits your health and well-being. Why This Book? "55 Profound Self-Healing Techniques" is not just a collection of practices; it's a roadmap to a healthier, more resilient you. The techniques covered in this book are time-tested and backed by both ancient traditions and modern science. Whether dealing with chronic stress, emotional challenges, or simply looking to enhance your overall health, this book offers something for everyone. Key Insights: 1) Mind-Body Connection: Explore the deep connection between your mind and body, and learn methods to use this link for effective healing. 2) Emotional Intelligence: Enhance your ability to understand and manage your emotions, leading to better relationships and a more fulfilling life. 3) Stress Management: Master effective strategies to manage and reduce stress, improving your mental and physical health. 4) Holistic Health: Embrace a comprehensive approach to health that includes physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Hippocrates has rightly said: "Healing is a matter of time, but it is sometimes also a matter of opportunity." So, take the first step towards a healthier, happier you with this book and start transforming your holistic health today!
Download or read book Folk Legends of Japan written by Richard M. Dorson and published by Tuttle Publishing. This book was released on 2012-09-11 with total page 369 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Delightfully illustrated, this collection of Japanese myths and fairy tales presents readers with a rich folk tradition. Folk Legends of Japan contains of over one hundred Japanese folk legends. These have been selected by a distinguished American folklorist, drawn from expert Japanese transcriptions of oral legends, and carefully translated in such a way as to bring out the charming, unadorned, and sometimes disarmingly frank folk quality of the originals. Each legend is carefully annotated for the student, scholar, and a full bibliography is provided. Fortunately, the scholarly attributes of the book are now allowed to intrude between the general reader and his enjoyment of the legends themselves. Anyone who loves a genuine old wives' tales, who savors firelit evenings of listening to the folk stories will find much pleasure in these Japanese stories. At the same time the folklorist will find a mine of information, and the Japanophile will discover the folk basis for many of the beliefs and customs that may have puzzled him in the past.
Download or read book Sensational Knowledge written by Tomie Hahn and published by Wesleyan University Press. This book was released on 2007-05-07 with total page 232 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: DVD contains: Examples of performances.
Download or read book The SAGE International Encyclopedia of Music and Culture written by Janet Sturman and published by SAGE Publications. This book was released on 2019-02-26 with total page 6589 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The SAGE Encyclopedia of Music and Culture presents key concepts in the study of music in its cultural context and provides an introduction to the discipline of ethnomusicology, its methods, concerns, and its contributions to knowledge and understanding of the world's musical cultures, styles, and practices. The diverse voices of contributors to this encyclopedia confirm ethnomusicology's fundamental ethos of inclusion and respect for diversity. Combined, the multiplicity of topics and approaches are presented in an easy-to-search A-Z format and offer a fresh perspective on the field and the subject of music in culture. Key features include: Approximately 730 signed articles, authored by prominent scholars, are arranged A-to-Z and published in a choice of print or electronic editions Pedagogical elements include Further Readings and Cross References to conclude each article and a Reader’s Guide in the front matter organizing entries by broad topical or thematic areas Back matter includes an annotated Resource Guide to further research (journals, books, and associations), an appendix listing notable archives, libraries, and museums, and a detailed Index The Index, Reader’s Guide themes, and Cross References combine for thorough search-and-browse capabilities in the electronic edition
Download or read book The Science of String Instruments written by Thomas D. Rossing and published by Springer Science & Business Media. This book was released on 2010-12-15 with total page 469 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Thomas D. Rossing String instruments are found in almost all musical cultures. Bowed string instruments form the backbone of symphony orchestras, and they are used widely as solo inst- ments and in chamber music as well. Guitars are used universally in pop music as well as in classical music. The piano is probably the most versatile of all musical inst- ments, used widely not only in ensemble with other musical instruments but also as a solo instrument and to accompany solo instruments and the human voice. In this book, various authors will discuss the science of plucked, bowed, and hammered string instruments as well as their electronic counterparts. We have tried to tell the fascinating story of scienti?c research with a minimum of mathematics to maximize the usefulness of the book to performers and instrument builders as well as to students and researchers in musical acoustics. Sometimes, however, it is dif?cult to “translate” ideas from the exact mathematical language of science into words alone, so we include some basic mathematical equations to express these ideas. It is impossible to discuss all families of string instruments. Some instruments have been researched much more than others. Hopefully, the discussions in this book will help to encourage further scienti?c research by both musicians and scientists alike. 1.1 A Brief History of the Science of String Instruments Quite a number of good histories of acoustics have been written (Lindsay 1966, 1973; Hunt 1992; Beyer 1999), and these histories include musical acoustics.
