The Particles of Piano series explores new performance possibilities by having the pianist play Japanese instruments like the Nambu bell, Myochin hibashi, and Kabuki Orgel simultaneously with the piano.
Performer Biography
Pianist Noriko Ogawa is an exclusive recording artist for BIS Records and has received the Japanese Ministry of Education's Art Prize for her contribution to Japan's global cultural profile.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Composer Yoshihiro Kanno's works aim to create a new musical concept by collaborating between Japanese 'primitive' sounds and a Western instrument.
Compositional Technique
This album marks the first time these specific Japanese sound sources have been used with piano for acoustical extension, a significant discovery comparable to John Cage's prepared piano.
Composer Biography
Yoshihiro Kanno's compositions are founded on three genres: Western orchestral music, traditional Japanese instruments, and computer music, which he employs freely.
Compositional Technique
The interaction of Japanese instruments with the piano in this series creates a novel acoustical construct, influencing the piano's resonance and making its sound appear amplified to the audience.
Instruments
The Myochin hibashi, metal chopsticks made from the same pure steel as samurai swords, can reverberate for 40 to 60 seconds when oscillated, creating a unique acoustical interference.
