Susumu Miyashita
Japanese Musical Instruments, Koto & Sanju-Gen
Toshiba Records (Japan) 1976
TH-60032 (LP)
sleeve : EX-(light dirts.)
media : EX/EX(some slightly noise.)
This 1976 album is by Susumu Miyashita, a 30-string koto performer and composer of contemporary koto music, renowned for creating avant-garde works that transcend classical traditions. Side A features recordings made in the main hall of Meigetsu-in Temple in Kamakura, also known as the “Hydrangea Temple.” It includes the celebrated koto solo Midare —one of the classic danmono compositions alongside Rokudan—as well as original pieces by Miyashita and works composed by his teacher and father, Shuretsu Miyashita. Side B begins with Solo Piece for 30-String Koto, another outstanding composition by Shuretsu. B2 is a work by Makoto Moroi, a modern composer known for numerous pieces featuring traditional Japanese instruments, offering a fascinating ensemble with bansuri and percussion. B3, composed by Yoshihiro Takaesu, incorporates elements evoking Okinawa and broader Asian atmospheres. A highly recommended album that fully showcases Miyashita’s progressive performances, expanding the expressive possibilities of the 30-string koto beyond classical boundaries.
B1: 三十絃のための独奏曲
B2: S.M.のためのシンフォニア
B3: 三十絃独奏のための「にぬふあ星」