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Japanese Koto Recital

With the Washington Toho Koto Society

Koto music reflects the quiet beauty, simplicity, and harmonizing effect of Japanese nature. Come and enjoy the elegant music played on the koto, a traditional Japanese 13-string instrument.

What is a koto? The koto is made of paulownia wood, is about six feet long and ten inches wide, and has thirteen strings of equal size and tension.  A bridge is placed under each string.  Moving the bridge up or down results in an infinite range of tunings.  The strings are plucked with plectra worn on the thumb, index and middle fingers of the right hand.  Various modifications of sound are made by pressing or pulling the strings with the left hand.  In all, there are seventeen different playing techniques for the right hand and eight for the left hand.  The koto is of Chinese origin and was introduced to Japan around the sixth century, and was originally used exclusively by the Imperial Court.  By the 17th century, its use became widespread and was enjoyed especially when accompanied by voice, shamisen, or shakuhachi.

Photo: Haru

The Washington Toho Koto Society is a nonprofit group of koto players and friends, primarily in the Washington metropolitan area, founded in 1971 by Kyoko Okamoto to promote the understanding and appreciation of Japanese koto music. The Society participates in many national and local community events, including the Lantern Lighting Ceremony which traditionally opens the National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington DC every spring.