10 Questions
What does the term 'Kabuki' refer to in traditional Japanese theatre?
A style that combines acting, singing, and dancing
Who is credited with founding Kabuki theatre in 1603?
Okuni, a Shinto Priestess
Which vocal pattern in Kabuki theatre is known for requiring extraordinary breath control and is used in the 'aragoto' style?
Ipponchoshi
What is the primary function of the 'Geza-ongaku' (Off-stage Music) in Kabuki theatre?
To provide background music and sound effects
Which of the following instruments is NOT mentioned as part of the Kabuki theatre music ensemble?
Koto
What is the purpose of the 'Shosa-ongaku' (On-stage Music) in Kabuki theatre?
To accompany the actors' lines and dances
Which of the following vocal techniques in Kabuki theatre involves a 'sensitive capacity of riding the rhythms of the shamisen'?
Nori Technique
What is the meaning of the term 'Nagauta' in Kabuki theatre?
The most popular form of Shamisen music
Which vocal technique in Kabuki theatre involves the 'subtle delivery of poetical text written in the Japanese metrical form of alternating 7 and 5 syllables'?
Yakuharai Technique
What is the primary function of the music in Kabuki theatre?
To accompany the actors' lines, dances, and scenic descriptions
Study Notes
Japanese Theatre: Kabuki Theatre
- Traditional Japanese theatre that combines acting, singing, and dancing
- Name "Kabuki" comes from "Ka" (sing), "Bu" (dance), and "Ki" (act)
- Founded in 1603 by Okuni, a Shinto Priestess, in Kyoto's Komagawa River
Vocal Patterns and Techniques
- Ipponchoshi/Continuous Pattern: used in speeches building up to an explosive climax in the aragoto style, requiring extraordinary breath control
- Nori Technique: adapted from Joruri chanting, requiring sensitive capacity to ride Shamisen rhythms
- Yakuharai Technique: subtle delivery of poetical text in Japanese metrical form of alternating 7 and 5 syllables
Vocal and Instrument Features
- Dances and movements accompanied by Shamisen Music
- Nagauta (long song): most popular Shamisen music, flexible and adaptable to different ensemble sizes
- Nagauta music can be performed by a single Shamisen player or an entire orchestra of 20 musicians
Role of Music in Kabuki Theatre
- "Geza-ongaku" (Off-stage Music): located off-stage, playing background music and sound effects, often with little to no vocals, and more percussion-related
- "Shosa-ongaku" (On-stage Music): located on-stage, accompanying acting and dancing with Shamisen and Hayashi ensemble, setting the mood and synchronizing with actors' lines and rhythms
Explore the history and characteristics of Traditional Japanese Kabuki Theatre, a stylized form of performance that combines acting, singing, and dancing. Learn about the origins of Kabuki Theatre, including its founding in 1603 by the Shinto Priestess Okuni, and its unique vocal patterns and techniques.
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