Study Questions on Japanese Music (Textbook part 7)

(complete sentences not necessary for questions 1-3.)

1. List key characteristics and the cultural context for Shakuhachi music. What is the significance of the teacher-student relationship in schools such as the Kinko lineage? (covered in textbook and lecture)

2. List key characteristics and the cultural context for gagaku. (Covered in textbook, in lecture, and in documentary film). What is the significance of the division of the repertoire into togaku and komagaku categories?

3. List key characteristics and the cultural context for koto music and describe the textbook example Rokudan no shirabe.

4. Describe two examples of Japanese music restricted to or at least associated with social classes. (Material covered primarily in lecture; extra notes on website; a few details scattered through the textbook.)

5. Describe Noh and kabuki and highlight some differences between them. (Covered in textbook, in lecture, and in documentary film).

6. Describe the concepts of “ma” and “jo ha kyu.” (Covered briefly in textbook and in lecture)

7. Name two differences between Chinese and Japanese musical culture, and make sure at least one of the differences is audible – something you personally can hear.

8. Describe your personal reaction to the type of Japanese music covered in class or the textbook that made the biggest impression on you.

David Meckler

MUS 250 World Music Cañada College