List of Okinawan instruments: Folk instruments of Ryukyuan music
Okinawan music has a uniquely distinctive vibe—there are plenty of laid-back songs that calm the heart when you listen to them, and lots of upbeat tunes that make you want to dance! The unique feel of Okinawan music owes a lot to the Ryukyu scale, but it’s also greatly influenced by the use of instruments unique to Okinawa.
In particular, the sanshin is the quintessential Okinawan instrument, and I think everyone has heard its tone at least once.
In this article, I’ll introduce other instruments that are commonly played in Okinawa as well, so let this be your chance to learn about the background and sounds of each instrument.
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List of Okinawan instruments: Folk instruments of Ryukyuan music
kokyū (a traditional Japanese bowed string instrument)
Called “kucho” in the Okinawan language, the kokyu is an instrument often used to accompany Ryukyuan classical music.
With its round body covered in snake skin, it resembles the sanshin—another major Okinawan instrument—but it is slightly smaller in size.
Its playing method also differs: while the sanshin is played by plucking the strings with a plectrum, the kokyu produces sound by rubbing the strings with a bow, like a violin.
Instruments played this way are called bowed string instruments.
The kokyu has a unique charm: its continuous, flowing tones lend it a Western-like feel, yet its timbre firmly conveys the essence of Okinawa.
Ufudēku
Ufudeeku refers to the large drum, the biggest type used in Eisa.
The largest ones can be 40 to 50 cm in diameter, and they produce the powerful, quintessential wa-daiko “don-don” sound.
When played in Eisa, a cord is threaded through a ring attached to the drum body, and the drum is suspended from the shoulder while being struck.
Although it’s larger than the paranku and shimedeku, the ufudeeku is also played while dancing.
Generally, when people say “Eisa drum,” they’re referring to the ufudeeku.
In conclusion
We’ve introduced a wide range of instruments commonly played in Okinawa.
Of course, there’s the sanshin, as well as instruments used in Eisa and traditional folk instruments passed down through the ages.
I’d be delighted if this article sparks your interest in Okinawan instruments.