To most of us, Japan is an exotic and faraway land. When we see images of Shinto shrines, pagodas, geishas, and Kabuki actors in face paint, our imaginations are immediately captured.Now you can experience this rich and mysterious culture through its music. In addition to arrangements of classic folk tunes such as "Sakura" and "Edo Komori-uta," Guitar Atlas: Japan teaches about Japanese scales, modes, and tunings, and traditional instruments such as the shamisen, koto, shakuhachi. Learn guitar techniques to emulate the sounds of these exotic instruments. Discover the fascinating world of Kabuki music, including a style of shamisen playing called ozatsuma. The book also informs about the Bon odori, or bon dances, held during the summer festival of Bon. This exciting introduction to the music of Japan offers new and interesting music to add to your repertoire, and teaches techniques, theory, and traditions that will enhance your playing and enrich your spirit. A CD demonstrating all examples and compositions is included.

Contents: Brief History Of Japanese Music, Traditional Instruments Of Japan, Traditional Scales And Modes, Folk Music (Minyo), Classical Music Of Okinawa, Shamisen Music Of The Kubuki Theater, Koto Music (Sokyoku)