"Music of the World" – MUL 2720 (Fall 2009) - Warfield

Review Sheet # 6
Nettl, Excursions, Chapter 5 (Japan)

  1. Know some of the basic facts about the country of Japan. What is it, and where is it located? What are some of its unique geographic and demographic features, and what effect have these had on the nation and its people?
  2. Why is tradition such an important cultural value in Japan, and how is this reflected in its music? Who listens to traditional music (hogaku) in Japan and why? Are there other kinds of music heard in Japan today?
  3. What are some basic traits common to almost all Japanese traditional musics? What type of sound does this music have (in general terms)? How does the phrase "Maximum effect with a minimum of material" relate to these musics?
  4. What is Sokyoku or "Koto" music? What are the three primary instruments of this style--the Koto, Shamisen, and Shakuhachi? What is the texture of this music?
  5. What are some defining traits of the Kabuki theatrical tradition? How far back into history does it reach, and for what audience was it intended? What performers make up each of the three instrumental groups used in Kabuki (Geza, Chobo, and Debayashi)?
  6. What are some defining traits of the Bunraku theatrical tradition? How far back into history does it reach, and for what audience was it intended? What performers make up the one musical ensemble used in Bunraku (and how is it related to a Kabuki ensemble)?
  7. What are some defining traits of the Noh theatrical tradition? How far back into history does it reach, and for what audience was it intended? What performers make up the one musical ensemble used in Noh (and does it relate to any other theatrical ensemble)?
  8. What is Gagaku, from where did this music enter Japan, and how far back does this tradition reach? Who was its primary audience and what effect did that have on the tradition? Where can one hear gagaku (both in earlier times and today)? In what ways does the gagaku resemble a western orchestra? What are some of the instruments or types used in the gagaku, and what is the division of responsibilities?
  9. What are some of the ways in which the Kodo drumming ensemble embodies the idea of "tradition" (both in the lives of ensemble members and their music)?