Exploring the Art of Koto Playing: A Comprehensive Guide to Japanese Traditional Music

The koto is a traditional Japanese stringed instrument that has been around for centuries. Its distinctive sound has captivated audiences worldwide, and its intricate playing technique has earned it a place in Japanese music history. But how is the koto played? In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the art of koto playing, from the basics of the instrument to the complexities of traditional Japanese music. We will delve into the history of the koto, its construction, and the different types of koto available. We will also cover the techniques used to play the koto, including the unique way of playing with both hands and fingers. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced musician, this guide will provide you with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the beautiful art of koto playing.

Understanding the Koto: Origins and Basic Structure

The Koto in Japanese Tradition

The koto has been an integral part of Japanese traditional music for centuries. Its origins can be traced back to the ancient Japanese court music, which was performed during the Nara and Heian periods. The instrument’s name “koto” translates to “bridge” in English, which is an appropriate name since the instrument features a series of bridges along its length.

During the Edo period, the koto evolved into the instrument we know today. It became a popular instrument among the common people, and it was used in various forms of entertainment such as traditional theater and dance. The koto’s unique sound, which is characterized by its bright and clear tones, soon became a defining feature of Japanese traditional music.

In modern times, the koto remains an essential instrument in Japanese traditional music. It is often featured in concerts, festivals, and other cultural events. Many musicians and music lovers appreciate the koto for its versatility, as it can be played in various musical styles, from traditional Japanese music to contemporary compositions.

The koto is also an important symbol of Japanese culture, and it is recognized as a Cultural Heritage of Japan by the Japanese government. Many schools and workshops dedicated to teaching koto playing have been established throughout the country, ensuring that the art of koto playing will continue to thrive for generations to come.

Koto Types and Basic Structure

The koto is a traditional Japanese stringed instrument that has been a vital part of Japanese music for centuries. There are several types of koto, each with its own unique characteristics and sound. The basic structure of the koto includes a wooden body, a neck, and strings that are stretched across the body and plucked with plectrums or fingers.

The most common type of koto is the “Tategoto,” which is a vertical instrument that stands on the floor. It has 13 strings and a range of approximately four octaves. The Tategoto is typically used in ensemble music and is considered the standard for koto music.

Another type of koto is the “Soho,” which is a smaller, portable instrument that can be played while seated. It has a range of approximately three octaves and is often used in solo performances.

In addition to the Tategoto and Soho, there are several other types of koto, including the “Ezo-hacchu,” “Yamatogoto,” and “Miyazo.” Each type of koto has its own unique tuning and sound, and skilled koto players are able to distinguish between them and adjust their playing accordingly.

The basic structure of the koto may seem simple, but the instrument’s intricate design and construction require a high level of skill and expertise to play. Koto players must have a deep understanding of the instrument’s mechanics and be able to control the sound and timbre of each string to create beautiful and expressive music.

Overall, understanding the different types of koto and their basic structure is essential for anyone interested in exploring the art of koto playing and Japanese traditional music. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, a comprehensive guide to the koto can help you develop your skills and deepen your appreciation for this beautiful and complex instrument.

Playing Techniques: Key Elements of Koto Performance

Koto Picking Techniques

The koto is a traditional Japanese musical instrument that has been an integral part of Japanese music for centuries. It is a plucked instrument with a simple appearance but a complex sound that is achieved through various playing techniques. One of the most important techniques in koto playing is the picking technique.

The koto picking technique involves using a plectrum or the fingers to pluck the strings of the instrument. The sound produced by the koto is dependent on the technique used to pick the strings. The technique requires precise timing and control to produce the desired sound.

There are several types of koto picking techniques, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most common techniques include:

1. Tsu-sen

Tsu-sen is a basic picking technique used in koto playing. It involves striking the string with the plectrum or the finger nail in a downward motion. This technique produces a clear and crisp sound and is commonly used in beginner-level koto playing.

2. Kiri-sen

Kiri-sen is a picking technique that involves plucking the string with the flesh of the finger rather than the nail. This technique produces a softer and more mellow sound than the tsu-sen technique. It is often used in slower and more contemplative pieces of music.

3. Uchi-sen

Uchi-sen is a picking technique that involves plucking the string with the thumb. This technique produces a strong and powerful sound and is often used in fast-paced and energetic pieces of music.

4. Soto-sen

Soto-sen is a picking technique that involves plucking the string with the fingers other than the thumb. This technique produces a more delicate and nuanced sound than the uchi-sen technique and is often used in slower and more introspective pieces of music.

Mastering these koto picking techniques is essential for any koto player looking to perform traditional Japanese music with accuracy and precision. Each technique has its own unique characteristics and is used in different musical contexts, making it important for koto players to understand the appropriate time and place to use each technique.

Koto Strumming Techniques

The art of koto playing involves various strumming techniques that are essential to producing a rich and melodious sound. These techniques include:

Soto-wazari

Soto-wazari is the most basic and fundamental strumming technique in koto playing. It involves strumming the strings with a single downward motion of the plectrum or finger. This technique produces a clear and clean sound and is used as the foundation for many other advanced techniques.

Uchi-wazari

Uchi-wazari is a more advanced strumming technique that involves strumming the strings with a single upward motion of the plectrum or finger. This technique produces a softer and more mellow sound than soto-wazari and is often used to create a more delicate and nuanced melody.

Tsumitori-wazari

Tsumitori-wazari is a strumming technique that involves pressing the plectrum or finger onto the strings before strumming them. This technique produces a percussive sound and is often used to add rhythmic interest to a melody.

Tone-wazari

Tone-wazari is a strumming technique that involves striking the strings with the edge of the plectrum or finger. This technique produces a sharper and more accented sound than other techniques and is often used to emphasize specific notes in a melody.

Kakegoe

Kakegoe is a strumming technique that involves striking the strings with the heel of the plectrum or finger. This technique produces a muted and soft sound and is often used to create a more subtle and delicate melody.

Overall, mastering these koto strumming techniques is essential for any koto player looking to produce a rich and nuanced sound in their performances. By practicing and incorporating these techniques into their playing, koto players can bring a greater depth and complexity to their music.

Expressive Techniques: Vibrato, Slide, and Col legno

Vibrato, slide, and col legno are expressive techniques used in koto playing to enhance the musical performance and convey emotion.

Vibrato

Vibrato is a technique in which the player rapidly oscillates the pitch of a note, creating a sense of musical expression and depth. In koto playing, vibrato is often used to add emotion and feeling to a piece, as well as to create a sense of movement and dynamics. To produce vibrato, the player uses a combination of finger pressure and wrist movement to oscillate the string, creating a slight variation in pitch.

Slide

Slide is a technique in which the player smoothly glides the finger from one fret to another, creating a smooth transition between notes. In koto playing, slide is often used to create legato passages and smooth transitions between notes, as well as to add expressiveness and nuance to a piece. To produce slide, the player uses a combination of finger placement and finger movement to glide the finger from one fret to another, creating a smooth and seamless transition between notes.

Col legno

Col legno is a technique in which the player uses the side of the bow rather than the hair to produce a scratchy, percussive sound. In koto playing, col legno is often used to create a rhythmic and percussive effect, as well as to add emphasis and contrast to a piece. To produce col legno, the player uses a combination of bow placement and pressure to create a scratchy, percussive sound on the string.

Overall, these expressive techniques are essential tools for koto players to convey emotion and add depth and nuance to their performances. By mastering these techniques, koto players can bring their music to life and create a truly unique and captivating sound.

Koto Music: Genres, Styles, and Famous Compositions

Traditional Koto Music Genres

Koto music, a traditional genre of Japanese music, is characterized by its unique melodies and harmonies. The koto, a traditional Japanese stringed instrument, is the central instrument in koto music. In this section, we will explore the different genres of traditional koto music.

Modes and Scales

Traditional koto music is based on various modes and scales, such as the Miyako mode, Kumoami mode, and Shinjo mode. Each mode and scale has its own unique characteristics and sound, and the use of different modes and scales creates a distinctive sound in koto music.

Traditional Pieces

Traditional koto music includes various types of pieces, such as kouta, kokinshu, and wakakusa. These pieces often feature traditional Japanese poetry and are characterized by their gentle and flowing melodies.

Koto Ensemble Music

In addition to solo koto music, there is also a rich tradition of koto ensemble music. Koto ensemble music involves multiple kotos playing together, creating a complex and harmonious sound. The different kotos are often tuned to different scales, creating a unique sound when played together.

Overall, traditional koto music genres offer a rich and diverse sound world, characterized by their unique melodies, harmonies, and scales.

Koto Music in Popular Culture

Koto music has had a significant impact on Japanese popular culture, with its distinctive sounds and rhythms featured in various forms of media. Here are some examples of how koto music has been used in popular culture:

Film and Television

Koto music has been featured in numerous Japanese films and television shows, often used to evoke a sense of tradition and nostalgia. In the film “Departures” (2008), for example, the koto is used to create a serene and contemplative atmosphere, while in the TV show “Little Women” (2014), the instrument is used to add a touch of authenticity to the portrayal of traditional Japanese life.

Video Games

Koto music has also been used in video games, often in games with a focus on Japanese culture or history. In the game “Final Fantasy” (1987), for example, the koto is used to create a mystical and otherworldly atmosphere, while in the game “Katana Zero” (2019), the instrument is used to add a sense of tradition and honor to the game’s samurai-themed setting.

Music

Koto music has also been featured in Japanese pop music, often as a way to add a touch of tradition to modern sounds. In the song “Ue o Muite Arukō” (2018) by King Princess, for example, the koto is used to add a Japanese twist to the song’s dreamy and ethereal sound, while in the song “Ai no Uta” (2019) by Doja Cat, the instrument is used to add a sense of elegance and sophistication to the song’s pop-infused sound.

Overall, koto music has had a significant impact on Japanese popular culture, with its distinctive sounds and rhythms adding a sense of tradition and authenticity to various forms of media. Whether in film, television, video games, or music, the koto continues to be an important and beloved part of Japanese culture.

Famous Koto Compositions and Performers

• Koto music is a traditional genre of Japanese music that has been performed for centuries.
• The koto is a traditional Japanese stringed instrument that is used to create music in this genre.
• Koto music has several sub-genres, including:
  • Gagaku: This is a type of classical music that was originally performed during court ceremonies.
  • Shirabe: This is a type of folk music that is characterized by its simple melodies and rhythms.
  • Sokkan: This is a type of music that is performed during religious ceremonies.
• Some of the most famous compositions in koto music include:
  • “Sakura Sakura”: This is a popular song that is often associated with the cherry blossom season in Japan.
  • “Tsuki ni Orite”: This is a hauntingly beautiful melody that is often performed at night.
  • “Aoi Aoi”: This is a lively and upbeat song that is often played during festivals and celebrations.
• Many famous performers have contributed to the art of koto playing, including:
  • Michiko Yamamoto: She is a renowned koto player who has won numerous awards for her performances.
  • Eiko Hashimoto: She is a celebrated koto player who has performed with many renowned orchestras and ensembles.
  • Kazue Sawai: She is a highly respected koto player who has written many influential works on the subject of traditional Japanese music.

Koto Accessories and Equipment: Essential Tools for Playing

Koto Strings and Tuning

When it comes to playing the koto, the strings and tuning are essential elements that can greatly affect the sound and overall performance. The koto has 13 strings, which are made of nylon or polyester fibers. These strings are arranged in a specific pattern, with four strings on the right side of the instrument and nine on the left side.

One of the most important aspects of koto playing is tuning. The koto is typically tuned to a specific scale, with the notes ranging from G to C. The tuning of the koto can be adjusted by tightening or loosening the strings using a tuning key. It is important to ensure that all 13 strings are in tune before beginning to play.

There are different methods for tuning the koto, including the use of a tuning fork or a digital tuner. Some koto players also use a technique called “intonation,” which involves adjusting the pitch of each string by pressing or sliding on the string with the finger.

It is worth noting that the koto’s strings are not intended to be plucked or strummed like those on a guitar. Instead, the strings are played with a pick or with the fingers, creating a distinctive sound that is central to the koto’s unique musical character.

Overall, the choice of strings and tuning is a personal preference, and different koto players may use different sets of strings or tunings to achieve their desired sound. However, it is essential to understand the importance of the strings and tuning in koto playing and to take the time to properly tune the instrument before playing.

Koto Foot Stool

The koto foot stool is an essential accessory for koto players, providing a stable and comfortable surface to rest their feet while playing. It is designed to be adjustable in height, allowing players to find the optimal position for their playing style.

There are two main types of koto foot stools: wooden and folding. Wooden foot stools are typically made from hardwoods such as oak or maple, and are known for their durability and stability. They are often used by professional players or those who play frequently.

Folding foot stools, on the other hand, are designed for portability and convenience. They are made from lightweight materials such as aluminum or plastic, and can be easily folded and stored when not in use. They are a popular choice for beginner players or those who travel frequently.

In addition to their functional benefits, koto foot stools also play an important role in the aesthetics of koto playing. They are often decorated with intricate designs and patterns, reflecting the artistic traditions of Japanese culture.

Overall, the koto foot stool is an essential tool for any koto player, providing stability, comfort, and aesthetic appeal. Whether you are a beginner or a professional, investing in a high-quality koto foot stool is a wise decision that will enhance your playing experience.

Koto Pick and Other Accessories

A koto pick is an essential tool for playing the koto, a traditional Japanese stringed instrument. It is a thin, flat piece of wood or plastic that is used to strike the strings of the koto, producing sound. The koto pick is held between the thumb and index finger and is used to create various sounds and techniques on the koto.

In addition to the koto pick, there are other accessories that are commonly used by koto players. These include:

• Koto Tuner: A device that helps koto players to tune their instrument to the correct pitch.
• Koto Strap: A strap that is worn around the neck to hold the koto in place while playing.
• Koto Foot Stool: A small stool that is placed beneath the koto to raise the instrument to the appropriate height for the player.
• Koto Music Stand: A stand that holds the koto music score for the player to refer to while playing.
• Koto Maintenance Tools: Tools such as a koto brush, which is used to clean the strings and body of the koto, and a koto humidifier, which is used to maintain the correct humidity level inside the koto.

Using these accessories can help koto players to improve their technique and performance, and to enjoy playing this beautiful and traditional Japanese instrument.

Koto Lessons and Resources: How to Learn and Improve Your Skills

Koto Schools and Instructors

• Specialized koto schools and instructors offer comprehensive programs to teach koto playing.
  • The Koto Academy in Tokyo offers both group and private lessons, catering to students of all levels, from beginners to advanced players.
    • Their curriculum covers traditional koto repertoire, contemporary music, improvisation, and performance techniques.
  • The Osaka Koto School focuses on the Michiyo Miyagi style, a renowned koto player and composer who developed a unique playing technique called “Koto-no-Oto.”
    • The school offers individual and group lessons, with an emphasis on mastering the Michiyo Miyagi style and exploring her compositions.
  • The Kyoto Koto Institute provides a diverse range of programs, including koto lessons, workshops, and cultural exchange events.
    • Their faculty consists of experienced koto players and educators, offering lessons in traditional koto playing, music theory, and performance practice.
  • Online resources, such as Koto Lessons with Yuko Kamaoka, offer video tutorials and instructional materials for beginners and intermediate players to learn at their own pace.
    • The program covers basic koto techniques, reading sheet music, and traditional koto pieces, providing a solid foundation for further study.

By exploring these koto schools and instructors, students can access specialized education and develop their koto playing skills under the guidance of experienced professionals. Each institution offers unique perspectives and approaches to koto playing, allowing students to choose the best fit for their interests and goals.

Koto Books, Online Tutorials, and Apps

Koto enthusiasts have access to a variety of resources that can help them improve their skills and deepen their understanding of the instrument. In this section, we will explore some of the most popular koto books, online tutorials, and apps that can enhance your learning experience.

Koto Books

1. “The Koto: A Japanese Musical Instrument” by Kazuko Matsushita
2. “Koto: The Traditional Japanese Instrument” by Takeshi Nagai
3. “Koto Techniques: A Practical Guide for Players” by Hiroshi Matsushita

These books provide in-depth information about the history, construction, and playing techniques of the koto. They also include music scores, exercises, and advice from experienced koto players.

Online Tutorials

1. Koto Academy: A comprehensive online platform that offers koto lessons for beginners and advanced players. The platform includes video tutorials, sheet music, and interactive exercises.
2. Koto Masterclass: A series of online classes that cover various aspects of koto playing, such as basic techniques, chord progressions, and repertoire. The classes are taught by experienced koto players and can be accessed online.
3. Nippon Foundation Koto School: A free online course that teaches the basics of koto playing, including how to hold the instrument, basic chords, and simple melodies. The course is designed for beginners with no prior musical experience.

Apps

1. Koto Tabs: An app that provides koto tablature for popular songs and pieces. The app includes a library of songs and allows users to transpose and customize their tabs.
2. Koto Trainer: An app that offers interactive exercises and games to help users improve their koto playing skills. The app includes various difficulty levels and provides feedback on user performance.
3. Koto Sound Library: An app that provides a collection of traditional Japanese music samples and sounds for koto players to incorporate into their compositions. The app includes a variety of instruments and can be used for composing and recording music.

By utilizing these resources, koto players can enhance their skills and deepen their understanding of the instrument. Whether you prefer books, online tutorials, or apps, there are many resources available to help you become a proficient koto player.

Koto Ensembles and Performance Opportunities

• Koto ensembles provide a unique opportunity for koto players to collaborate and perform together, creating a rich and dynamic sound.
• Many cities and towns in Japan have koto clubs or societies that offer regular meetings and performances for members.
• Additionally, there are numerous festivals and events throughout the year that feature koto music, offering chances for both amateur and professional players to showcase their skills.
• Online resources, such as video tutorials and online forums, can also provide valuable information and connections for those interested in learning and performing koto music.
• By participating in koto ensembles and performance opportunities, players can develop their technical skills, learn new repertoire, and deepen their understanding and appreciation of traditional Japanese music.

The Joy of Playing Koto: Benefits and Personal Growth

The Therapeutic Qualities of Koto Playing

Koto playing offers a range of therapeutic benefits that make it an excellent choice for personal growth and well-being. The relaxing nature of the instrument and the music it produces can have a positive impact on both the mind and body. Here are some of the therapeutic qualities of koto playing:

• Stress Relief: Playing koto can help to reduce stress levels, providing a much-needed respite from the pressures of daily life. The soothing sounds of the instrument and the process of learning and playing can all contribute to a sense of calm and relaxation.
• Mindfulness: Koto playing requires focus and concentration, which can help to promote mindfulness and reduce anxiety. By focusing on the instrument and the music, players can become more present in the moment, leading to a greater sense of calm and clarity.
• Emotional Expression: Koto playing allows for emotional expression, making it a useful tool for managing feelings such as sadness, anger, and frustration. Playing the koto can be a cathartic experience, helping players to process and express their emotions in a healthy way.
• Physical Benefits: The physical act of playing the koto can provide a range of physical benefits, including improved coordination, fine motor skills, and hand-eye coordination. The rhythmic nature of the music can also help to improve heart rate and respiration, providing a gentle form of exercise.
• Social Interaction: Playing koto can also provide opportunities for social interaction, whether through group lessons, jam sessions, or performances. This can help to build confidence, improve communication skills, and foster a sense of community and belonging.

Overall, the therapeutic qualities of koto playing make it a valuable tool for personal growth and well-being. Whether you are looking to reduce stress, manage emotions, or simply find a new hobby, koto playing offers a range of benefits that can enhance your overall quality of life.

Developing Cultural Awareness and Appreciation

Koto playing is not only a delightful musical experience but also an opportunity to develop cultural awareness and appreciation. As you delve into the art of koto playing, you will discover the rich history and traditions of Japanese music, opening doors to a deeper understanding of the country’s cultural heritage. Here are some ways in which koto playing can foster cultural awareness and appreciation:

• Learning about traditional Japanese music: By studying the principles and techniques of koto playing, you will gain insights into the distinct characteristics of Japanese traditional music. This includes exploring the different types of koto, such as the futozao and jinashi, and understanding the role of other traditional instruments like the shamisen and taiko.
• Studying the history of koto: Koto has a long and fascinating history, dating back to the 8th century. As you learn to play the koto, you will also be exposed to the evolution of this instrument and its place in Japanese culture throughout the ages. This includes discovering how koto has been influenced by various historical periods, such as the Edo era, and its significance in Japanese folk music.
• Exploring the koto’s cultural significance: The koto holds great cultural significance in Japan, representing the country’s musical heritage and playing an important role in various traditional events and ceremonies. By learning to play the koto, you will gain a deeper appreciation for its cultural importance and how it is woven into the fabric of Japanese society.
• Engaging with other musicians and music enthusiasts: As you delve into the world of koto playing, you will have the opportunity to connect with other musicians and music enthusiasts who share your passion for Japanese traditional music. This can lead to meaningful conversations, shared experiences, and a richer understanding of the cultural context of the music you are playing.
• Performing koto music for others: As you progress in your koto playing journey, you may have the opportunity to perform for others, whether it be in a traditional ensemble or as a solo artist. This can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to share your passion for Japanese traditional music with others and promote a greater appreciation for this unique art form.

By engaging with koto playing, you will not only develop your musical skills but also gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the rich cultural heritage of Japan. Embrace the journey and let the beauty of Japanese traditional music inspire your personal growth and cultural awareness.

Personal Growth through Koto Practice

Playing the koto can offer a wealth of personal growth opportunities for those who embrace it as a musical pursuit. As an instrument that requires both technical proficiency and emotional expression, koto playing can foster personal development in various ways. Here are some examples:

Cultivating Patience and Persistence

Mastering the koto takes time and effort, requiring a significant amount of practice to develop the necessary skills. The process of learning to play the koto can be challenging, especially for beginners, but it also provides ample opportunities to develop patience and persistence. As players progress through their studies, they may encounter obstacles such as finger calluses, sore hands, or difficulty with intricate techniques. It is through overcoming these challenges that patience and persistence can be cultivated, which are valuable traits that can be applied to other areas of life.

Enhancing Mindfulness and Focus

Playing the koto requires a high degree of focus and concentration, as the player must pay close attention to the notes, rhythms, and techniques being taught. This intense focus can help players develop mindfulness and concentration skills, which can be beneficial in many aspects of life. By practicing koto regularly, players can learn to quiet their minds and focus on the present moment, developing a heightened sense of awareness and attentiveness.

Fostering Creativity and Self-Expression

While the koto is a traditional Japanese instrument, there is still room for creativity and self-expression within the framework of its music. Players can develop their own unique style by incorporating personal interpretations of traditional melodies or composing their own pieces. This creative process can help players tap into their own individuality and foster self-expression, allowing them to share their unique voice with others.

Building Confidence and Self-Esteem

Playing the koto can also boost confidence and self-esteem, as players progress through their studies and become more proficient. As players master new techniques and perform for others, they may experience a sense of accomplishment and pride in their abilities. This boost in confidence can have a positive impact on all areas of life, as it encourages players to take on new challenges and pursue their passions with greater conviction.

Cultivating Cultural Awareness and Appreciation

Finally, playing the koto can provide an opportunity to deepen one’s understanding and appreciation of Japanese culture. As players learn about the history and traditions surrounding the koto, they may develop a greater appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Japan. This can foster a sense of cultural awareness and appreciation, which can be valuable in all aspects of life.

FAQs

1. What is the koto and how is it played?

The koto is a traditional Japanese stringed instrument that has been played for centuries. It is typically made of a wooden body with strings stretched across it, and is played by plucking or strumming the strings with the fingers or a pick. The koto is often used in traditional Japanese music, and is known for its distinctive sound and unique playing style.

2. What are the different types of koto?

There are several different types of koto, each with its own unique characteristics and playing style. The most common types include the satsuma-koto, which has a shorter body and thicker strings, and the chikuto, which has a longer body and thinner strings. Other types of koto include the shamisen, which is similar to the koto but has a different shape and is played with a pick, and the janggu, which is a small drum played in conjunction with the koto.

3. How do I learn to play the koto?

Learning to play the koto can be a challenging but rewarding experience. It is important to find a qualified teacher or instructor who can guide you through the basics of the instrument and help you develop your skills. Many schools and music centers offer koto lessons, or you may be able to find a private instructor in your area. Practice is key to becoming proficient at playing the koto, so be sure to set aside time each day to work on your skills.

4. What kind of music is typically played on the koto?

The koto is often used in traditional Japanese music, such as classical, folk, and pop music. It is also used in modern music and has been featured in many popular songs. The koto’s distinctive sound and unique playing style make it a versatile instrument that can be used in a wide range of musical genres.

5. Are there any famous koto players?

Yes, there are many famous koto players who have made significant contributions to the instrument and its music. Some of the most well-known koto players include Michiyo Miyagi, who was a pioneering composer and performer of modern koto music, and Shinichi Yuasa, who is known for his work in traditional and contemporary koto music. Other notable koto players include Taki Kunishi, Yumiko Schmitt, and Kazue Sawai.