Have you ever heard the hauntingly beautiful melodies of the koto, the traditional Japanese musical instrument? With its distinctive zither-like sound, the koto has been a staple of Japanese music for centuries. But what is the cultural origin of this enchanting instrument? Join us on a journey to explore the rich history and cultural significance of the koto, and discover how it has become an integral part of Japanese music and culture. From its ancient roots to its modern-day use, we’ll uncover the fascinating story of this unique and captivating instrument.
What is the Koto and Where Did it Come From?
Brief History of the Koto
The koto is a traditional Japanese stringed musical instrument that has been a staple of Japanese music for centuries. It is a plucked instrument, with a rectangular frame and strings stretched across it, and is typically played with the use of plectrums or “plectra.” The instrument has a rich history, with origins dating back to the Nara period (710-794), although the modern form of the koto as we know it today began to take shape during the Edo period (1603-1868).
One of the earliest known references to the koto can be found in the “Nihon Shoki,” an ancient Japanese chronicle that was compiled in 720. The “Nihon Shoki” mentions a musical instrument called the “koto,” which was played during court ceremonies. However, it is believed that this early form of the koto was quite different from the instrument we know today.
During the Edo period, the koto underwent significant changes and developments. The instrument became more standardized, with the development of a standardized tuning system and the creation of a standardized form of the instrument. The koto also began to be played in a wider range of musical contexts, including in theaters and in popular music.
Today, the koto remains an important part of Japanese music and culture, with a rich history and a vibrant community of players and enthusiasts.
Evolution of the Koto Throughout the Centuries
The Koto, a traditional Japanese musical instrument, has undergone numerous changes throughout its history. The earliest forms of the Koto date back to the Nara period (710-794), where it was used in court and religious music. However, it wasn’t until the Edo period (1603-1868) that the Koto became widely popular and began to evolve into the instrument we know today.
During the Edo period, the Koto was played primarily in the geisha houses and tea ceremonies. It was considered a luxury item and was often made from expensive materials such as ebony and ivory. The instrument underwent significant changes during this time, including the addition of more strings and the development of a wider range of notes.
The Koto continued to evolve in the Meiji period (1868-1912), as Japan underwent significant modernization and Western influences began to impact traditional arts and culture. The instrument was adapted to include Western tuning systems and was played in a variety of new settings, including orchestral music.
Today, the Koto remains an important part of Japanese musical culture and is played in a wide range of contexts, from traditional music to contemporary compositions. Despite its evolution, the instrument still retains its distinctive sound and cultural significance, making it an enduring symbol of Japanese musical heritage.
The Koto’s Significance in Japanese Culture
The Koto in Traditional Japanese Music
The koto is a traditional Japanese stringed musical instrument that has been an integral part of Japanese music for centuries. Its unique sound and cultural significance have made it a beloved instrument in Japan and around the world.
In traditional Japanese music, the koto is often used in ensemble performances alongside other instruments such as the shamisen, taiko drums, and the flute. These ensembles, known as “Japanese traditional music ensembles,” are typically made up of three to five musicians and are characterized by their intricate rhythms and harmonies.
One of the most famous genres of traditional Japanese music that features the koto is “koto music.” This genre is characterized by its use of the koto as the lead instrument, with other instruments providing accompaniment. Koto music often tells stories or depicts scenes from Japanese history or nature, and is typically performed by female musicians.
Another important aspect of the koto’s significance in traditional Japanese music is its use in religious ceremonies. The koto is often played during Shinto rituals and festivals, where its gentle melodies are believed to purify the space and bring a sense of peace and tranquility.
Overall, the koto’s place in traditional Japanese music is a testament to its cultural significance and the enduring appeal of its unique sound. Its use in a variety of musical genres and cultural contexts has helped to ensure its continued popularity and relevance in Japan and around the world.
The Koto as a Symbol of Japan’s Cultural Heritage
The koto has long been considered a symbol of Japan’s cultural heritage, reflecting the country’s deep musical traditions and artistic values. It is an emblem of Japan’s historical and cultural identity, and its significance extends far beyond the realm of music. The koto represents a vital part of Japan’s intangible cultural heritage, a testament to the country’s unique artistic expressions and its commitment to preserving its traditional musical instruments.
Here are some reasons why the koto is regarded as a symbol of Japan’s cultural heritage:
- Historical Significance: The koto has a rich history dating back to the Nara and Heian periods, making it one of the oldest surviving traditional Japanese musical instruments. Its development and evolution reflect the changing cultural and social landscape of Japan over the centuries, making it an important historical artifact.
- Cultural Representation: The koto is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, with its distinctive design and sound embodying the country’s artistic and musical traditions. It is often featured in traditional Japanese music, dance, and theater, such as Noh and Kabuki performances, where it plays a vital role in evoking the spirit and atmosphere of these art forms.
- Artistic Expression: The koto is a versatile instrument, capable of producing a wide range of sounds and melodies that are essential to Japanese traditional music. Its unique design, with its long neck and strings, allows for complex finger techniques and expressive performances, making it a powerful tool for artistic expression.
- Educational and Pedagogical Significance: The koto is also an important educational tool, teaching students about Japanese music, culture, and history. It is used in music schools and conservatories throughout Japan, where students learn to play and appreciate the instrument’s cultural significance.
- Cultural Exchange: The koto has played a significant role in cultural exchange between Japan and other countries, serving as a symbol of Japanese music and art. It has been performed and studied in other countries, promoting cross-cultural understanding and appreciation of Japan’s musical heritage.
In conclusion, the koto’s status as a symbol of Japan’s cultural heritage is a testament to its historical significance, artistic expression, and educational value. It represents a vital part of Japan’s intangible cultural heritage and serves as a powerful reminder of the country’s unique artistic traditions and values.
The Koto’s Role in Preserving Traditional Japanese Music
The koto is an integral part of traditional Japanese music, and its role in preserving this unique art form cannot be overstated. As a musical instrument that has been played in Japan for centuries, the koto has helped to keep alive the traditional melodies and rhythms that have been passed down from generation to generation.
One of the key ways in which the koto has contributed to the preservation of traditional Japanese music is by serving as a conduit for the transmission of these musical traditions from one generation to the next. Many koto schools and teachers have been dedicated to passing on their knowledge and skills to their students, ensuring that the traditional music of Japan continues to be played and appreciated.
Furthermore, the koto’s unique sound and tuning system have played a significant role in the preservation of traditional Japanese music. The koto’s 13 strings, which are stretched over a wide range of frets, allow for a wide range of notes to be played, making it possible to perform complex melodies and harmonies. This has made the koto an essential instrument in the performance of traditional Japanese music, and has helped to ensure that these musical traditions continue to be passed down from one generation to the next.
Additionally, the koto’s use in traditional Japanese music has helped to keep alive the cultural heritage of Japan. By preserving the traditional melodies and rhythms of Japan, the koto has played a vital role in maintaining the cultural identity of the country. Through its continued use in traditional Japanese music, the koto serves as a symbol of the rich cultural heritage of Japan, and as a reminder of the importance of preserving and celebrating this heritage.
Overall, the koto’s role in preserving traditional Japanese music is a testament to the enduring power of this unique musical instrument. Through its continued use in traditional Japanese music, the koto has helped to keep alive the cultural heritage of Japan, and has ensured that the traditional melodies and rhythms of the country continue to be appreciated and celebrated for generations to come.
The Koto’s Impact on Global Music Culture
The Koto’s Influence on Other Musical Instruments
The Koto has had a profound impact on global music culture, influencing the development of numerous other musical instruments. One of the most significant aspects of the Koto’s influence is its role in the evolution of stringed instruments.
The Lute Family
The Koto’s shape and structure resemble that of the lute family, which includes instruments such as the guitar, oud, and sitar. The lute family has a long history, dating back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt and Greece. However, it was the Islamic world that played a significant role in the development of the lute family. The Persian instrument, the barbat, and the Indian instrument, the sitar, are examples of lute-family instruments that have been influenced by the Koto.
The Guitar Family
The guitar family, which includes instruments such as the acoustic and electric guitar, bass guitar, and classical guitar, has also been influenced by the Koto. The guitar family is believed to have originated in ancient Egypt, but it was the Spanish guitar that played a significant role in its development. The Spanish guitar, in turn, was influenced by the Koto, which introduced new techniques and designs to the instrument.
The Harp Family
The Koto has also influenced the development of the harp family, which includes instruments such as the pedal harp and the lyre. The harp family has a long history, dating back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt and Greece. However, it was the Celtic harp that played a significant role in the development of the modern harp. The Koto introduced new techniques and designs to the Celtic harp, resulting in the development of the modern pedal harp.
In conclusion, the Koto has had a profound impact on global music culture, influencing the development of numerous other musical instruments. Its shape and structure have influenced the evolution of stringed instruments such as the lute family, the guitar family, and the harp family. The Koto’s influence can be seen in instruments from all over the world, a testament to its enduring cultural significance.
The Koto’s Popularity Beyond Japan’s Borders
- The Koto’s Appeal to Non-Japanese Audiences
- Its Unique Sound and Timbre
- The Koto’s Warm and Mellow Tones
- The Distinct Sound of the Silk and Steel Strings
- Its Rich Cultural Heritage
- The Koto’s Historical Significance in Japanese Culture
- Its Role in Preserving Traditional Music and Art Forms
- Its Unique Sound and Timbre
- The Koto’s Global Reach
- Performances by Non-Japanese Musicians
- Collaborations with Western Classical Musicians
- Cross-Cultural Fusion with Other Musical Styles
- Recordings and Publications
- The Availability of Koto Music in Record Stores and Online Platforms
- Publications and Scholarly Works on Koto Music and Culture
- Performances by Non-Japanese Musicians
- The Koto’s Contribution to World Music
- Influence on Other Musical Traditions
- Similarities with Other Plucked Instruments
- Adaptations and Innovations in Koto Music
- Popularity in Music Festivals and Events
- Performances at International Music Festivals
- Workshops and Masterclasses for Aspiring Musicians
- Influence on Other Musical Traditions
The Koto in Modern Music
The Evolution of the Koto in Modern Music
- Introduction of the Koto to the Western World
- Adaptation of the Koto in Western Music
- Incorporation of the Koto in Popular Music Genres
The Influence of the Koto on Modern Music
- Innovative Techniques and Styles
- Blending of Traditional and Modern Sounds
- The Koto as a Symbol of Japanese Culture
The Koto in Contemporary Music Scenes
- The Koto in Jazz and Improvisational Music
- The Koto in Experimental Music
- The Koto in Collaborations with Other Artists and Genres
The Future of the Koto in Modern Music
- Continued Evolution and Adaptation
- The Koto as a Bridge between Cultures
- The Koto’s Enduring Appeal and Significance in the Global Music Landscape
Understanding the Structure and Techniques of Playing the Koto
The Koto’s Physical Structure and Components
The koto is a traditional Japanese stringed musical instrument that has been an integral part of Japanese culture for centuries. It is typically composed of a wooden body, with strings stretched across a flat wooden bridge, and played with two bachi (sticks) made of hardwood. The koto’s physical structure and components are crucial to understanding its unique sound and playing techniques.
One of the most significant aspects of the koto’s physical structure is its wooden body. The body is usually made from the wood of the Paulownia tree, which is a lightweight and resonant wood that is native to Japan. The body is usually around 120 cm long and 30 cm wide, and it is typically rounded at the edges to provide a resonant surface for the strings.
The strings of the koto are typically made from nylon or other synthetic materials, and they are stretched across a flat wooden bridge that is attached to the body of the instrument. The strings are usually plucked with the bachi, which are held in the player’s right hand. The bachi are typically made from the wood of the Cherry or Maple tree, and they are about 25 cm long and 5 cm wide.
The koto also has a resonator, which is a chamber located inside the body of the instrument that amplifies the sound of the strings. The resonator is usually made from a combination of wood and paper, and it is essential for producing the distinctive sound of the koto.
Overall, the physical structure and components of the koto are designed to produce a unique and rich sound that is essential to the instrument’s cultural significance in Japan. Understanding these components is crucial to appreciating the intricacies of playing the koto and its role in Japanese music and culture.
Basic Techniques for Playing the Koto
Playing the koto requires a combination of both technical skills and an understanding of the cultural significance of the instrument. The basic techniques for playing the koto include proper hand positioning, finger placement, and striking the strings with the right amount of force.
Proper Hand Positioning
Proper hand positioning is crucial when playing the koto. The left hand is responsible for plucking the strings, while the right hand is used to dampen the strings after they have been plucked. The left hand should be positioned so that the fingers are close to the strings, while the thumb is used to press down on the strings. The right hand should be positioned so that the fingers are close to the strings, while the thumb is used to dampen the strings.
Finger Placement
Finger placement is also an important aspect of playing the koto. The fingers should be placed on the strings in a way that allows for proper plucking and dampening. The index finger is typically used to pluck the thickest string, while the middle finger is used to pluck the second thickest string, and so on. The ring finger and pinky are typically used to dampen the strings after they have been plucked.
Striking the Strings
Striking the strings with the right amount of force is also an important aspect of playing the koto. The strings should be plucked with a firm but gentle touch, as striking them too hard can cause them to buzz or produce an unpleasant sound. The right amount of force will produce a clear and resonant sound from the koto.
In addition to these basic techniques, playing the koto also requires an understanding of the cultural significance of the instrument. The koto has been an important part of Japanese culture for centuries, and playing it is a way to connect with this rich history and tradition. As such, players of the koto must not only master the technical aspects of playing the instrument, but also appreciate its cultural significance and play with respect and reverence for its history and cultural importance.
Advanced Techniques for Playing the Koto
The koto is a versatile instrument that can be played in a variety of ways, and advanced techniques for playing the koto require a high level of skill and expertise. Some of the most advanced techniques for playing the koto include:
- Playing in Multiple Octaves: One of the most advanced techniques for playing the koto is the ability to play in multiple octaves. This involves playing notes on different strings at the same time, creating a rich and complex sound.
- Harmonics: Another advanced technique for playing the koto is the use of harmonics. This involves playing notes on the strings using a light touch, creating a clear and ringing sound.
- Pizzicato: Pizzicato is a technique that involves plucking the strings with the fingers instead of striking them with the pick. This creates a mellow and subtle sound that is often used in traditional Japanese music.
- Slide Techniques: Slide techniques involve moving the fingers along the strings to create glissandos and other expressive effects. This can be used to create a wide range of sounds and textures, from soft and subtle to loud and dramatic.
- Advanced Fingerpicking: Advanced fingerpicking techniques involve using the fingers to create complex patterns and rhythms on the strings. This requires a high level of precision and control, and can be used to create a wide range of sounds and effects.
Overall, advanced techniques for playing the koto require a high level of skill and expertise, and can be used to create a wide range of sounds and effects. By mastering these techniques, koto players can create rich and complex musical compositions that showcase the full range of capabilities of this unique and fascinating instrument.
Famous Koto Players and Performances
Renowned Koto Players from Japan and Around the World
Throughout history, many skilled musicians have mastered the art of playing the koto, contributing to the instrument’s global recognition. Here, we highlight some of the most renowned koto players from Japan and around the world.
Koto Masters from Japan
- Ms. Shimpei Ito: A highly acclaimed koto player, Ms. Ito is known for her exceptional technical skill and expressive performances. She has received numerous awards for her contributions to traditional Japanese music and has been instrumental in popularizing the koto both domestically and internationally.
- Mr. Tada Hirotaka: As a respected koto performer and composer, Mr. Tada has made significant contributions to the modernization of koto music. His innovative approach to the instrument has garnered critical acclaim, and he has been invited to perform at prestigious venues and festivals worldwide.
- Ms. Fumiko Ozawa: A versatile koto player, Ms. Ozawa is celebrated for her ability to seamlessly blend traditional koto music with contemporary styles. Her collaborations with other musicians and composers have helped to expand the koto’s musical repertoire and broaden its appeal to new audiences.
International Koto Artists
- Ms. Aoi Nakamura (United States): Born in Japan, Ms. Nakamura relocated to the United States, where she has become a prominent koto player and instructor. She has performed at major venues and festivals, including the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., and has been recognized for her efforts to promote the koto in the international community.
- Mr. Juan Manuel Cañizares (Spain): A virtuoso koto player and composer, Mr. Cañizares has earned acclaim for his unique approach to the instrument. He has integrated the koto into various musical genres, including classical, flamenco, and contemporary music, creating a distinctive sound that has captivated audiences worldwide.
- Ms. Jie Ma (China): As a prominent koto player in China, Ms. Ma has played a significant role in introducing the instrument to her home country. Her dedication to the koto has helped to foster cultural exchange between Japan and China, and she has been instrumental in organizing koto festivals and workshops in both countries.
These renowned koto players, both from Japan and around the world, have played a crucial role in promoting the koto as a unique and versatile musical instrument. Their artistic contributions have not only preserved the cultural heritage of the koto but have also expanded its horizons, ensuring its continued relevance in the global music scene.
Memorable Koto Performances in History
Throughout history, numerous koto players have made significant contributions to the instrument’s popularity and development. Here are some of the most memorable koto performances that have left an indelible mark on the world of traditional Japanese music.
The Legendary Michio Miyagi
One of the most renowned koto players in history is Michio Miyagi, a Japanese composer and musician who is widely recognized as the father of modern koto music. His groundbreaking works, such as “Koto Music” and “River Flows to the Sea,” showcased the koto’s versatility and range, pushing the boundaries of traditional Japanese music. Miyagi’s innovative compositions blended elements of Western classical music with traditional Japanese melodies, paving the way for future generations of koto players.
The Elegant Kazue Sawai
Kazue Sawai, a celebrated koto player and composer, is another significant figure in the world of traditional Japanese music. Known for her refined and expressive style, Sawai has released numerous albums and collaborated with other musicians, showcasing the koto’s potential for contemporary interpretation. Her composition “Fantaisie pour Koto” has become a staple in the repertoire of many koto players, and her influence on the instrument’s development is undeniable.
The Virtuosic Shinichi Yuasa
Shinichi Yuasa, a koto player and conductor, is recognized for his technical prowess and innovative approach to traditional Japanese music. As the founder of the Tokyo Koto Society, Yuasa has been instrumental in promoting the koto and other traditional Japanese instruments to a wider audience. His performances have captivated audiences around the world, showcasing the koto’s dynamic range and emotional depth.
The Versatile Tsuji Tsuneo
Tsuji Tsuneo, a composer and koto player, has made significant contributions to the world of traditional Japanese music by expanding the instrument’s repertoire. His compositions, such as “Koto Sonata” and “Koto Concerto,” demonstrate the koto’s potential for fusion with other musical styles, including Western classical and contemporary music. Tsuneo’s performances have inspired countless koto players to explore new directions and push the boundaries of traditional Japanese music.
These memorable koto performances have not only showcased the instrument’s beauty and versatility but have also played a crucial role in its evolution and continued popularity. Through the work of these innovative artists, the koto remains an essential part of Japan’s rich cultural heritage and a beloved instrument among musicians and music enthusiasts alike.
The Future of the Koto in Japan and Beyond
Preserving the Koto’s Cultural Significance for Future Generations
As the koto continues to evolve and adapt to the changing times, it is crucial to preserve its cultural significance for future generations. Here are some ways in which this can be achieved:
- Education and Outreach Programs
Education and outreach programs play a crucial role in preserving the cultural significance of the koto. These programs can help to promote the instrument and its music to a wider audience, while also providing opportunities for people to learn about its history and cultural significance. This can be achieved through various means, such as workshops, masterclasses, and educational events. - Collaboration with Other Cultural Institutions
Collaboration with other cultural institutions can help to preserve the koto’s cultural significance by promoting its music and history to a wider audience. This can be achieved through various means, such as exhibitions, festivals, and cultural events. By collaborating with other cultural institutions, the koto can be showcased alongside other traditional Japanese arts and crafts, helping to promote its cultural significance and importance. - Digital Preservation
Digital preservation is becoming increasingly important in preserving the cultural significance of traditional instruments like the koto. By digitizing recordings, videos, and other media related to the koto, future generations can continue to learn about and appreciate the instrument’s cultural significance. This can be achieved through various means, such as creating digital archives, online exhibitions, and digital collections. - Encouraging New Creativity
Encouraging new creativity is also important in preserving the koto’s cultural significance. By encouraging contemporary artists to incorporate the koto into their work, the instrument’s music and cultural significance can continue to evolve and adapt to the changing times. This can be achieved through various means, such as commissions, residencies, and collaborations with contemporary artists.
By implementing these strategies, the koto’s cultural significance can be preserved for future generations, ensuring that this traditional Japanese musical instrument continues to be appreciated and celebrated for many years to come.
Adapting the Koto for Modern Audiences and Musicians
As the world continues to evolve, so too does the koto, the traditional Japanese musical instrument. The koto has a rich history and cultural significance in Japan, and it is important to preserve its unique sound and character while also ensuring its relevance in modern times.
Emphasizing the Unique Sound of the Koto
One way to adapt the koto for modern audiences is to emphasize its unique sound. The koto’s distinctive timbre is a result of its 13 strings and resonating body, which creates a rich, resonant sound that is instantly recognizable. By showcasing the koto’s unique sound, musicians can create a sense of continuity with the instrument’s long history while also appealing to modern listeners.
Incorporating Electronic Elements
Another way to adapt the koto for modern audiences is to incorporate electronic elements. The koto’s acoustic sound can be amplified and processed using electronic equipment, allowing it to be used in a wide range of musical genres. This approach has been used by many contemporary koto players, who have integrated the instrument into electronic music, ambient music, and other forms of experimental music.
Experimenting with Different Techniques and Styles
Finally, adapting the koto for modern audiences involves experimenting with different techniques and styles. While the traditional koto repertoire is vast and varied, there is always room for innovation and creativity. By exploring new techniques and styles, koto players can create new sounds and express themselves in new ways, keeping the instrument relevant and vibrant in the 21st century.
In conclusion, adapting the koto for modern audiences and musicians involves emphasizing its unique sound, incorporating electronic elements, and experimenting with different techniques and styles. By doing so, the koto can continue to thrive and evolve, ensuring its place in Japanese culture for generations to come.
The Koto’s Potential for Further Evolution and Innovation
Evolving Koto Design and Technology
- Advancements in acoustic technology: Enhancing the sound quality and projection of the koto through the incorporation of new materials and techniques.
- Innovative koto designs: Collaborations between traditional craftsmen and contemporary designers, resulting in fresh, modern koto designs that maintain the instrument’s traditional essence.
Expanding the Koto’s Role in Modern Music
- Fusion with other musical genres: Exploring the potential of the koto in various genres, such as jazz, classical, and pop music, to create unique and innovative soundscapes.
- Integration with technology: Utilizing digital tools and technology to create new opportunities for the koto in modern music production, recording, and performance.
Nurturing the Next Generation of Koto Players
- Education and training programs: Developing comprehensive education and training programs to nurture young talent and preserve the art of koto playing for future generations.
- Promoting the koto’s versatility: Encouraging the exploration of various styles and techniques, while emphasizing the koto’s adaptability to different musical genres and performance contexts.
Collaborative Efforts to Preserve and Promote the Koto
- International collaborations: Engaging in cultural exchange programs and collaborations with koto players and enthusiasts from around the world, promoting the instrument’s global reach and appreciation.
- Preservation of traditional techniques: Supporting and promoting the preservation of traditional koto-making techniques and craftsmanship, ensuring the continuity of this valuable cultural heritage.
The koto’s potential for further evolution and innovation is vast, with numerous opportunities for artists, craftsmen, and educators to contribute to its development and continued relevance in today’s diverse musical landscape. By embracing change while respecting tradition, the koto can remain a vital and cherished part of Japan’s cultural identity and a beloved instrument worldwide.
FAQs
1. What is a koto and where is it from?
The koto is a traditional Japanese stringed musical instrument that has been a part of Japanese culture for centuries. It is a plucked instrument with a flat base and a varying number of strings, typically 13 or 17. The koto is usually played while seated on a floor or tatami mat and is used in a variety of traditional Japanese music styles, including classical, folk, and popular music.
2. How did the koto originate?
The koto is believed to have originated in China, where it was known as the “guqin.” It was introduced to Japan in the 7th or 8th century and quickly became a popular instrument among the nobility. Over time, the koto evolved to suit Japanese tastes and became an integral part of traditional Japanese music.
3. What is the significance of the koto in Japanese culture?
The koto holds great significance in Japanese culture as it is a symbol of traditional music and art. It is often featured in traditional Japanese paintings and literature, and its melodic sounds are closely associated with the cultural identity of Japan. The koto is also used in various cultural events and ceremonies, such as tea ceremonies and classical music performances.
4. How is the koto played?
The koto is played by plucking the strings with the fingers or a pick, using a technique called “hikiku.” The player uses a wooden pick to pluck the strings, producing a range of tones and sounds. The koto can also be played in various ways, including using a bow to create a continuous sound, or by using the fingers to strum the strings like a guitar.
5. How is the koto different from other stringed instruments?
The koto is unique in its construction and playing technique. Unlike Western stringed instruments, such as the guitar or violin, the koto has a flat base and no frets. This allows for a unique playing style and a wide range of tones and sounds. Additionally, the koto is often played while seated on a floor or tatami mat, adding to its distinct cultural identity.