Types of koto

The four types of koto (Gakuso, Chikuso, Zokuso, Tagenso) were all created by different subcultures, but also adapted to change the playing style.

1. What is the classification of koto?
2. How many strings does a koto have?
3. What type of instrument is a koto?
4. What are koto picks called?

What is the classification of koto?

Using organological terminology, the koto is a thirteen-stringed, heterochord, half-tube, plucked, long zither, with two fixed, and thirteen movable, bridges. considered uniquely Japanese (see Johnson 1996a for a survey of Japanese classifications of musical instruments).

How many strings does a koto have?

The standard koto is a zither (an instrument with strings stretched the length of the sound box) with 13 strings.

What type of instrument is a koto?

Koto, also called kin, long Japanese board zither having 13 silk strings and movable bridges. The body of the instrument is made of paulownia wood and is about 190 cm (74 inches) long.

What are koto picks called?

Koto picks are called "Tsume" in japanese. Tsume are made by fastening the pick inside a band called a "Wa." The bands are made from thickly lacquered paper, or sometimes leather. And the picks are usually ivory or plastic.