Japanese Music WebQuest 

• learn about different Japanese instruments
• listen to the different sounds the instruments make
• compare Japanese instruments to the instruments you know about
• pronounce calls that Kabuki actors make
• listen to modern music recorded by Japanese bands

Sho (vertical bamboo flute)

Click on the this link to read about the history of the koto:  http://www.asahi-net.or.jp/%7Enp5y-hruc/kt-what.html

1.  What was the Koto first used for?

2.  Compare this instrument to a guitar.  Can you find three ways in which they are different and/or alike?

Click on this link to read about how to play the koto:
http://www.asahi-net.or.jp/%7Enp5y-hruc/kt-play1.html

3.  What is the difference between the Yamada tsume and the Ikuta tsume?

To listen to the koto, click on any of the links labeled with music notes.
 

1.  In Kabuki, the actors often shout out words.  This is called kakegoe.  Listen to each sound.  Try to pronounce them yourself.

2.  After the sounds, there are different instruments.  Listen to them.  Can you tell the differences in the sounds they make? 

3.  There are numerous drums that are used in Japanese music.  Explain why you think this is necessary.
 

1.  Click on the sound files to listen to the music tracks.

2.  Think of some reasons that these bands might prefer to play modern music rather than traditional music.

3.  How are the tracks you listened to similar to music you hear on American radio stations?