Koto << KOH toh >> is a traditional stringed instrument that holds an important place in Japanese culture. The koto can be played as a solo instrument or as part of a chamber group or an orchestra. It resembles the zither, a popular instrument in Western folk music.
The typical koto is about 74 inches (190 centimeters) long. It is made of a high-grade hardwood from the paulownia tree, which is cultivated in China and eastern Asia. The modern koto has 13 silk or nylon strings of the same length and thickness. The strings are stretched with equal tension over 13 movable bridges (thin, arched wooden pieces). The pitch of a string can be adjusted by moving the bridge.
A musician plays the koto by plucking the strings using finger picks on the thumb, index finger, and middle finger. The instrument was traditionally played from a kneeling or sitting position. However, in modern concerts, the instrument may be placed on a stand while the performer sits on a chair.
The koto probably originated in China. It was introduced to Japan during the 700’s and soon became an important instrument in Japanese court music, a type of classical music played at the Japanese imperial court. In modern Japan, the koto achieved its greatest importance as a household instrument, and skillful playing was considered a mark of education and refined upbringing. During the 1900’s, kotos were developed with 17 to 25 strings. The instrument has been used in jazz, pop, rock, and experimental music.
