gagaku

Gagaku is a classical court music and dance tradition of Japan. It is the oldest of the surviving Japanese musical genres and is considered one of the world's oldest orchestral music traditions. Gagaku was historically performed at the imperial court and in major temples and shrines. The music is characterized by its slow tempos, serene melodies, and intricate instrumental arrangements.

The repertoire of Gagaku can be broadly divided into two main categories: k6gaku (music of the left) and ughaku (music of the right). K6gaku is of Chinese origin, while ughaku is from the Korean peninsula. Over centuries, these forms were adapted and integrated into Japanese court music, resulting in the unique sound of Gagaku. Instruments typically used in Gagaku ensembles include the hichiriki (a double-reed pipe), the sh6 (a mouth organ), the biwa (a lute), the koto (a zither), and various percussion instruments like the taiko (drum) and sh6k6 (hanging bronze bell).

Gagaku performances often accompany dances known as bugaku. These dances are also ancient, with influences from China and other parts of Asia. Bugaku costumes are elaborate and colorful, and the movements are slow, stylized, and symbolic. Today, Gagaku is preserved and performed by the Imperial Household Agency's Music Department and by various musical associations and temples across Japan, ensuring its continuity as a living cultural heritage.