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A Japanese short-necked lute, played with a large plectrum, used occasionally in Gagaku performances, often for narrative storytelling in 'heikyoku' pieces.

A double reed Japanese flute often considered the main instrument in Gagaku music, providing a distinctive timbre and playing the main melodic lines in the ensemble.

A lower-pitched, larger variant of the Koto used in Gagaku performances, known for its deeper and more resonant tones, adding depth to the ensemble.

A mouth organ used in Gagaku that plays clusters of tones called 'aizuchi', contributing harmony and rich overtones, and is said to represent the phoenix in dance performances.

A high-pitched bamboo flute used in Gagaku and in Noh theatre, recognizable by its distinct solo timbre and challenging playability.

A transverse bamboo flute in the Gagaku ensemble that plays cheerful and light melodic passages, symbolizing the dragon in Gagaku dance.

A small double-headed drum used in Gagaku, held in the lap, and played with two sticks. It often marks the rhythmic cycle in dance pieces.

A small bronze gong played with a horn mallet, used in Gagaku to keep rhythm and add metallic texture, often associated with Buddhist rituals.

A category of Japanese flutes of which the Ryūteki is a primary example in Gagaku, and includes other types like the Komabue and Nokan.

A generic term for drum in Japanese, but in Gagaku, it refers to a large barrel drum used to provide dynamic rhythmic support for the ensemble.

A small transverse flute used in Gagaku, especially for Azuma Asobi (Eastern Entertainment) and Komagaku music, featuring a clear and high-pitched tone.

A long zither with 13 strings that is plucked, known for its elegant and subtle contributions to Gagaku, although not a traditional Gagaku instrument.

The dance component of Gagaku, often accompanied by the Gagaku musical ensemble, with performances that include precise choreography often symbolizing historical tales or celestial events.

A large hanging drum angled on a stand, played with padded mallets in Gagaku music, known for its deep, resonant sound used in both court and religious music.