Japanese Music

By: Franz & Heather

Cherry Blossom Tree

Music & Culture of Japan• Japan has similar styles to Korea• The Japanese word for music is “ongaku”• Traditional Japanese robes are “Kimonos”• Pants in Japanese are called “Hakamo”• Kimonos have various designs such as

cherry blossom flowers with different accompanying flowers

• Designs can also be based on seasons

Japanese Instruments

Music of Japan• Japanese music is like music from cherry

blossom trees• Some songs tell the emotions of the artist• The music is similar to Chinese & Korean

in the aspect that it speaks the mind• Music is very important to the elderly• Japanese music is also used in parades &

ceremonies

Importance of Music in Japan• Music is used in parades• In traditional plays, music is used to show

emotion• There is no record about early Japanese

music• Japanese music usually have no steady

beat• Music in Japan are usually improvised

Taiko Drums

When & where is Japanese music Performed/listened?

• Japan Town (Performances by Taiko Drums, etc)

• Festival & Ceremonies (Cherry Blossom Festival)

• Online listening to Japanese Music• Performances and Parades are there for

people to enjoy

Noriko Sakai• Famous composer/singer from Japan• Best selling single is called “Aoi Usagi”

(Meaning Blue Rabbit)• Born February 14, 1971, Married 1998• Son born in 1999

Noriko Sakai

Other Japanese Music• J-Rock, another example of Japanese

Music• Similar to American rock-n-roll• Difference is Japanese singing is powerful

and speaking to audience

Credits:

Franz MangononHeather Wong