Serving as the Imperial capital for over a thousand years (794-1869), Kyoto was Japan’s most substantial arts centre, especially in the field of music. Elegant courtly composition (known as gagaku) flourished there, as did nô theatre with its songs and dances, but also forms aimed at the merchant-classes, such as choreography (in kabuki theatre), melodies for the samisen (lute) or the sitar-like koto, as well as music to accompany traditional celebrations. This record is a genuine musical encyclopaedia which takes us on a captivating, instructive journey through melodic soundscapes at the hands of some of Japan’s major performers. Christophe LOINTIER