 Yasugi
Bushi 2 (Song of Yasugi)
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To continue with the Yasugi Bushi, we have to consider the popularity
of Oito's singing and Tokunosuke's shamisen playing. It grew very rapidly
and since it had become fixed, as I wrote last week, they felt the need
to protect the original character of the song. Therefore, they formed
the hOrthodox Yasugi Bushi Preservation Societyh in 1911. At that time,
formal rankings were established for singers. After the Taisho Era, it
had become strongly established and is now taught and sung in the standard
way.
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However, it is still flexible in the sense that the emotions of the
singer can be expressed in the song. From this point of view, it is really
a song from the people's heart. I really enjoy hearing the song when there
is a party for foreign people, because I can get comments on the real
Japan and its art. While talking about such things, I also learn the reason
they wanted to come to Japan and the benefit they expect to gain from
it.
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Shimane Prefecture had a Cultural Fair in New York City in June of this
year and the Yasugi Bushi was played there. My friend, Mr. Randy Quinby,
from Pennsylvania, went to see it and it made him homesick for Shimane.
He also told me that the exhibition hall had been so full that many people
were standing. All of them appeared charmed by the wonderful culture of
Shimane Prefecture. Maybe some of them will visit us. I certainly hope
so. I will enjoy talking to them about the places I love best, Matsue
and Izumo.
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