Japanese Folk Songs and Instruments
What is a Japanese Folk Song?
Japanese folk songs were sung by ordinary people in various parts of Japan. They may be sung alone, sung with hand-clapping, or sung with the playing of musical instruments. They also include prayers to the gods, wishes for good harvests, good catches, and cures for illnesses, as well as labor songs and lullabies.
History of Japanese Folk Song
Japanese folk songs are believed to have existed since ancient times. Folk songs are thought to have originated from the inflection of words when praying to the gods, voices expressing evocation, and the addition of verses to create a rhythm when working. These were freely passed down among the people and are sung as songs today. In the late Meiji period (1868-1912), new minyo-style songs began to be composed to promote each region. These songs are called "new min'yo" to distinguish them from traditional min'yo.
Japanese Folk Songs and Instruments
Kokiriko
A piece of bamboo, about 1cm thick and 23cm long, is grasped with the fingertips of each hand, twisted and strummed while dancing and singing. It has been used in Japan since the Middle Ages.
Binzasara
A long, thin piece of wood (sometimes bamboo) about 10 to 20 cm long with holes drilled in the top and woven into a line with string. It is held at both ends and struck by opening and closing the bottom of the piece of wood.
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