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Cultural Performance: Koto Harp

Photo by Aaron Lee

Enjoy a koto harp performance by Mitsuki Dazai at 1:15pm in the Jordan Schnitzer Japanese Arts Learning Center. This performance is included for free to guests with garden admission.

About the Koto Harp

The standard Koto harp is a thirteen-string plucked zither. It was introduced to Japan from China through the Korean Peninsula in the 7th century. The instrument has been part of the Gagaku court ensemble for over one thousand years, gradually becoming popular among the merchant classes of the Edo period (1600-1868). An important member of the traditional Sankyoku ensemble, along with the three-string Shamisen and Shakuhachi (bamboo flute), the Koto developed further in a solo capacity, eventually gaining its place as one of Japan’s most prominent musical instruments. Today a varied repertoire along with a wide range of playing techniques provides a wonderful palette of sound textures, making the Koto appealing to audiences the world over.