Folk dances of Japan enthral the audience at city palace, Jaipur

Jaipur: In Japan today, there are around 150 schools of traditional Japanese classical dance, which is generally divided into two forms: Mai distinguished by restrained ceremonial movements; and Odori, characterized by more earthy, extroverted movements. Elements of both styles have been incorporated into Kabuki dance. Dance instruction is often associated with Kabuki schools.  

The city palace of Jaipur and the New Delhi-based Japan Foundation today mesmerized the spectators with the folk song and dance performance and Shamisen.

The concert entitled “Soul of Japan’ was organized by Baisho Matsumoto. On the occasion Ex Princess Diya Kumari said that “This is in continuation with the initiative of organizing events of different countries in the City Palace.”

In the event four masters of traditional dance, drums, folk songs and shamisen showcased the versatile music and dance tradition of Japan.

Shamisen, incidentally is a three-stringed traditional music instrument which produces a clear and vibrant sound. It has been loved by the Japanese people for over 500 years.

For performances in India, the Shamisen master, Baisho Matsumoto and folk singer, Yoshimi Fujimoto were accompanied by Japanese dance master, Akira Nishizaki and drum performer, Kyoko Hibiki to create a soul stirring spectacle. As the concert was open to all, dance lovers thronged  in large number to see the gala evening of Japanese dance.