MUSIC 365 - Music of Japan

Institution:

Bard College

Subject:

Description:

Asian Studies The course begins with an examination of the ancient repertories of Buddhist chant ( shomyo) and court music ( gagaku). Students also consider the Zen-inspired shakuhachi ( end-blown bamboo flute) honkyoku and music for biwa ( lute), shamisen, koto, and other traditional instruments. After exploring the impact of Western music on Japan, the class focuses on the combination of traditional Japanese instruments and forms with Western contemporary classical techniques, as exemplified by the work of Toru Takemitsu, Yuji Takahashi, Toshi Ichiyanagi, and others. Also explored are postwar experimental groups; key figures such as Yoko Ono and Takehisa Kosugi, and recent developments in "noise" music byMerzbow and Otomo Yoshihide,which are examined in the context of the current scene, in which traditionally trained gagaku musicians collaborate freely with electric guitarists, turntablists, and laptop players.

Credits:

4.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.bard.edu

Phone Number:

(845) 758-6822

Regional Accreditation:

Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools

Calendar System:

Semester

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