Composer Miya Masaoka has started playing the "Laser Koto," a futuristic version of the traditional Japanese stringed instrument, the Koto, that's been around since the 8th century. Masaoka outfitted ...

HAMAMATSU, Japan It was a sight fit for an episode of the Twilight Zone: Dressed in black formal wear, a crowd of musicians filed into a concert hall west of Tokyo and sit down to play. But instead of ...

Her fingers dance upon the strings, and like a river or wind, the sounds of the koto carry June Okida Kuramoto. The ancient Japanese instrument drew her in with its angelic voice when she was a little ...

The celebratory sound of taiko (drum) has become integral to many festivals and performances across Japan. For centuries, taiko artisans and ensembles have helped preserve and advance these ...

This article is part of a two-part series. To learn about a biwa master and her music lessons, see here. Traditional Japanese instruments, also known as wagakki, are an intrinsic part of Japan’s rich ...

NAGAHAMA, Shiga -- Production of silk strings for traditional Japanese instruments such as the shamisen and koto is at its seasonal peak in this western Japan town. At the workshop of Marusan ...