Tunure

Tunure is a traditional Japanese musical instrument that belongs to the family of bowed string instruments, specifically a type of *yōkan* (弦管), which combines elements of both strings and wind. It is often described as a cross between a violin and a flute, as it produces sound through both bowed strings and a reed mechanism. The instrument is primarily used in *nōgaku* (能楽), the classical Japanese performing art that includes dance and drama, and is also found in certain regional folk traditions.

The tunure consists of a wooden body with a narrow, elongated shape, typically made from *kaya* (桐), a type of Japanese paulownia wood, which is prized for its resonance and durability. The instrument features a single string, which is plucked or bowed, while a small reed mouthpiece allows the player to blow air into the body, creating a dual sound. This combination of plucked or bowed strings and wind produces a rich, resonant tone that is both melodic and percussive.

In *nōgaku*, the tunure is often played by a *sō* (僧), a priest or performer who accompanies the dance and recitation of the drama. The instrument’s role is to enhance the emotional and atmospheric depth of the performance, often playing in a soft, expressive manner. The tunure’s sound is characterized by its warm, slightly nasal quality, which blends seamlessly with the vocal and instrumental ensemble of *nō* music.

While the tunure is most closely associated with *nōgaku*, variations of the instrument appear in other Japanese folk traditions, such as *kumi-odori* (組踊), a group dance form. Its construction and playing technique remain relatively simple compared to more complex bowed instruments, reflecting its specialized role in traditional Japanese performing arts. Today, the tunure is less commonly heard outside of dedicated *nō* performances, though efforts have been made to preserve and reintroduce it in contemporary cultural contexts.