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How do kagok songs use instrumental accompaniment?
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Korean music
Musician playing a kŏmungo, a type of Korean zither with six strings.
In the context of Korean music, kagok is a rare and traditional vocal form consisting of 26 five-section solo songs and one duet. Instrumental accompaniment for these performances is provided by a small ensemble that serves two primary functions: it provides the musical backing for the vocalists and performs instrumental interludes between sections of the songs.1
The ensemble typically includes the following instruments:
* Kŏmungo: A six-stringed zither1
* Se’piri: A small double-reed aerophone1
* Taegŭm: A large bamboo flute1
* Haegŭm: A two-stringed fiddle1
* Changgo: An hourglass drum1
These instruments work together to support the vocal performance, which is a significant facet of the Korean music tradition.1