How did Miyagi Michio change traditional koto music?

Miyagi Michio (1894–1956), a prominent composer and koto teacher of the Ikuta school, was a leading figure in the development of shin hōgaku (new traditional music) following World War I. He sought to modernize traditional Japanese music by incorporating elements inspired by Western musical styles, such as thicker textures and new instrumental combinations.1

His key contributions to changing koto music include:

• Instrument Innovation: He invented the 17-stringed bass koto (jūshichigoto), which expanded the instrument's range and tonal possibilities.12
• Ensemble Expansion: He moved beyond traditional solo or small-chamber formats by composing works for orchestras of traditional instruments and experimenting with diverse ensembles, such as his 1921 piece Ochiba no odori ("Dance of the Falling Leaves"), which utilized two kotos, a samisen, and his newly invented bass koto.1
• Cross-Cultural Synthesis: His compositions, such as the 1929 duet Haru no umi ("Spring Sea"), bridged traditional Japanese idioms with Western-influenced structures, creating a style that resonated with both domestic and international audiences.1

Through these innovations, Miyagi helped revitalize traditional music by bridging the gap between old traditions and contemporary sounds.1