Japan
Japanese music is known for its tradition and culture. Probably the most famous style is that of the Taiko Drums.
When thinking of Japanese music most people think of loud drum circles with well choregraphed dancing and singing.
To the normal listener it is an exciting performance that gets your heart beating. To Taiko musicians and the people of Japan it
represents thousands of years of culture. To find out more about Taiko druming click here.
Japanese music has many styles, and through the years has evolved into a unique blend of modern and ancient music. Check out this
site from the Unitversity of Texas to see the evolution of Music in Japan.
In my opinion one of the coolest foms of Japanese culture is a blend of music and theater called Kabuki.
Kabuki can be about a wide range of things from government, social struggles, or just everyday occurances.
To see an awesome website click "KABUKI"!
Another from of Japanese music is Gagaku. Gagaku is actually somewhat of a miracle. It is one of the oldest forms of Japanese music, and has been passed down
through the generations, and through all these years has still relatively maintained its original form. Check out this site to find
ot the whole history behind Gagaku and its dances.
As I said before Japanese music has evolved a great deal. In fact today Japan is one of the leading importers and exporters
of modern pop music. Japan's interest in music is as strong as ever. So strong, that Japan has a style of pop music all its own.
ONGAKU.COM is a site that can show show you three different modern Japanese bands.
It is definitely interesting to see where they have come to.
The picture above, a Taiko drum was taken from http://www2u.biglobe.ne.jp/~oedo/htm/menu_e.html .
