Hyōshigi (拍子木) describes a simple, clapping percussion instrument with a sound evocative of Kabuki theatre and other Japanese traditions – two pieces of hardwood or bamboo connected by a thin ornamental rope – they bang together, sometimes with increasing speed.
Hyōshigi are sometimes made of cherry wood
Hyōshigi are used in traditional Japanese theatre such as Kabuki and Bunraku, to announce the beginning of a performance, and the the kyogen-kata usually plays the hyōshigi at the start of comedic plays. The sound is all about attracting attention by conductors for various other forms of musical theatre, as well as by officials or athletic performances, such as Sumo wrestlers by the yobidashi ringmaster, or at juggling performances.
The yobidashi ringmaster uses hyōshigi at the beginning of a sumo contest
Hyōshigi can also be combined with other traditional Japanese instruments in mikagura-uta, or cycle of songs, characteristic of the Tenrikyo religion.
Here are some remarkable kabuki performances featuring Hyōshigi alongside other instruments, and another video explaining more about the form.
Here is compilation of traditional music also features the instrument:
So then, anything else share in relation to sounds of the Japanse hyōshigi, in music or wider culture? Feel free to suggest examples, or even from film, art, or other contexts in comments below.
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