Multifaceted Approach to Gagaku Performances: an Experimental Recording
On 30 September and 1 October 2024, a series of experiments was conducted to simultaneously measure audiovisual data, physiological data (such as respiration), and motion capture data during multi-person performances of gagaku, Japanese court music, as part of the joint research project “Dance and Instrumental Performance: Embodied Communication in Gagaku Practice,” led by Dr. KAMATA Sayumi, Researcher of the Department of Intangible Cultural Heritage. The project involves collaboration with the University of Tokyo, J. F. Oberlin University, Kobe University, Riken, and Durham University, and is supported by a Mishima Kaiun Memorial Foundation 2024 Academic Research Grant.
Traditional performing arts often require performers in different roles to coordinate their expressions; however, this coordination is not merely mechanical. To explore how this is achieved from multiple perspectives, the experiment had two main objectives: (i) to record elements that cannot be captured by video or audio alone, such as breathing and fine movements; and (ii) to gather insights from the performers about their specific awareness and coordination during their instrumental or dance roles. With the cooperation of a total of 13 performers, two representative pieces, ‘Manzairaku’ and ‘Ryo-oh,’ were recorded in both the bugaku (with dance) and kangen (instrumental only) styles. These pieces were chosen for their significance in the gagaku repertoire and their contrasting performance styles.
The data collected, both quantitative (audiovisual, physiological, motion capture) and qualitative (interviews), will be analyzed in detail to understand the interaction between performers. Although the research is in its early stages, it is expected to contribute to the development of diverse methodologies for documenting and preserving traditional performing arts.