"The koto is unique among Japanese musical instruments, its long and rich history leading to it becoming synonymous with "traditional" Japanese culture. Henry Johnson examines the construction, performance traditions and contexts of performance of the koto. Much of the information on the koto is gained through Johnson's ethnographic field research with instrument makers, performers and study of instruments in museums, archives and private collections. " "Integral to this study is a look at the social organizations of koto performance, and how they regulate and influence the transmission of the instrument and its music. "--BOOK JACKET.