The harp, a Western instrument, and the koto, a Japanese instrument, go hand in hand!

Have you ever heard of the harp?
The harp is also called the “queen of musical instruments” for its graceful appearance and beautiful tone.

In Japan, such a harp is also called a “竪琴（tategoto）.
What is interesting here is the character for “琴（koto）.
In Japan, there is a 13-stringed zither called “Koto (Sou no Koto)” which is commonly known today, isn’t it?
Are you curious about the relationship between “tategoto” and “koto”?

Let me introduce a little about the harp and the koto.

First of all, both the harp and the koto have in common that they are both wooden instruments.
Another similarity is that they can basically play one note per string.

Conversely, harps have strings that are stretched vertically, while kotos have strings that are stretched horizontally.
Another difference is that the harp is played by plucking the strings with the fingers, while the koto is played by placing a pick-like object called a “nail” on the finger and plucking the strings.

The harp, a Western instrument, and the koto, a Japanese instrument, are two instruments that may not seem like they are related, but when combined, they are said to be a perfect match.
We hope you will try listening to a harp and koto ensemble!