MUSIC OF CLASSICAL JAPANBY:

HALL IE CHEN

RYAN ZHAO

MARVIN CHAN

VIV IAN LU

THE KOTO• Traditional Japanese instrument

• 13 strings, which are plucked to create sound

• Originated in China

• Solo performances or ensemble

• Many forms in other countries in Asia

HOW TO PLAY THE KOTO• The koto is played by plucking the strings in a very swift motion.

• Picks are placed on the thumb and two fingers on the right hand and are used to pluck the strings.

• The left hand is used to press the strings to change the pitch.

WHAT DOES THE KOTO SOUND LIKE?• The koto has a soothing sound that was used as old Japanese

court music.

• The koto is said to capture the pure sound of Japan.

HISTORY OF THE KOTO• The koto was introduced to the Japanese by the Chinese.

• The koto is considered the national instrument of Japan.

• Over time, the number of strings on the koto have increased.

• The koto is often studied by girls in samurai families.