InvitationSeeing performances of gagaku
Traditionally, gagaku performance was limited to the contexts of court, temple and shrine. Today, however, there are more and more opportunities to see it in concert performance.
First impressions of gagaku performance
Those who come in contact with gagaku for the first time sometimes come away with the impression that it all sounds the same. Here’s what to know to be able to enjoy it even on first acquaintance.
Unusual facts about gagaku
A selection of unusual facts about gagaku, for those in the know
With its long history and wide range of sources, gagaku sometimes demonstrates rather unusual features
With its long history and wide range of sources, gagaku sometimes demonstrates rather unusual features
- The yayue of China and the gagaku of Japan
- The role played by the gakke (hereditary music families)
- ‘Spring’ the favored season in the title of tōgaku (‘Tang music’) pieces
- Decoding the mysteries of the piece names of the komagaku (‘Korean music’) repertoire
- Gagaku and the warrior class of the Edo period
- Inheriting the music culture of Asia
