Folk Song Bar

Within the Uta Sanshin of Okinawa, classical music and folk songs are thought of separately. Since educated people from the upper class created most of the classical music during the Ryukyu dynasty era, it had deep relations with the welcome entertainment for envoys sent to China and developed through joining with Ryukyuan dance and Kumiodori. The beginnings of folk songs are not clear, but they were supposedly sung from ancient times in each area. It is also supposed that folk song Sanshin music was created when the instrument itself began being played by common people. The hearts of the common people created these folk songs. The contents were taken from customs, legends and old songs, and trends at the time were also reflected. Folk songs are broadcast through radio and television almost every day. Listening and singing along, Okinawan people enjoy it as part of their daily lives. The Okinawan musical scale (do-mi-fa-so-do) is thought to have a healing effect, and recently an increase of enthusiasts from outside the prefecture has been seen.

Ryukyuan Folk Songs-Chatan Moushi / Akira Wakugawa 3'58"