Noh is a comprehensive performing art that incorporates drama, dance, music, literature, and art. This performance highlights hayashi, the music of Noh, and introduces its distinctive musicality.
The program interweaves the light, up-tempo “Hayabue,” the lively “Shishi,” and other pieces that even adults can fully appreciate. The “Sanbanzo,” which has a steady, repetitive rhythm, will be performed together with the children from the workshop.
Appreciating and experiencing the Noh music performance will nurture children’s sensitivity.
They will see something invisible and hear something inaudible, and awaken in them senses forgotten to modern people.
Program
The Hayashidou performance is an instrument-only performance that highlights the musicality of Noh.
1. Opening greeting & the history of Noh: Noh begins and ends with greetings. After the formal greeting, the history of Noh will be simply explained.
2. Instruments: Each instrument will be explained.
3. “Hayabue”: This powerful music accompanies the entrance of dragon deities.
4. Kakegoe: Learn about kakegoe (calls), a feature of Noh music. Experience kakegoe and how the pauses alter the performance.
5. Noh musical expression: Explanation of the methods of expression used in Noh music. Experience the superlative technique of nagashi by clapping in time.
Break
6. “Sanbanzo” (joint performance): “Sanbanzo” will be performed together with about 18 children selected from the workshop. The other children will clap in time.
7. “Kagura”: Goddess Ame no Uzume no Mikoto danced to this music in front of the cave where goddess Amaterasu Omikami was hiding. A high level of competence is required to perform this rhythmical, lively piece, and the sudden changes in speed excite audiences.
8. “Shishi”: Stillness and motion, this dynamic, exuberant piece is the Hayashidou theme song. Experience the essence of Noh music.
9. Questions & comments: Members of the audience have the opportunity to ask anything they want, be it something they do not understand or they are curious about.
10. Closing greeting: The workshop closes with a formal greeting.