yowagin

Japanese music

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July 15, 2026

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The term "yowagin" refers to a lyric style within Japanese music, specifically associated with Noh theater. This style is characterized by its melodic principles, which differ from the "strong" style (tsuyogin). In yowagin, the fundamental tones are a fourth apart, with regulated movement between them, similar to Western counterpoint. Melodies incorporate formulas and ornaments, drawing from Buddhist chant and secular court songs. The notation for Noh singing, known as utai, uses a basic sesame-seed notation derived from earlier traditions, with variations maintained by different Noh schools. Japanese music, in general, has been influenced by China and Korea but developed unique characteristics due to Japan's island isolation.12

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Japanese music
Melodic principles
…(tsuyogin) and the lyric (yowagin). Their differences are most evident in the placement of fundamental tones and the use of auxiliary tones around them. In the lyric style the three basic tones (jō, chū, and ge) are a fourth apart. The movement to and from each note is regulated…
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…(tsuyogin) and the lyric (yowagin). Their differences are most evident in the placement of fundamental tones and the use of auxiliary tones around them. In the lyric style the three basic tones (jō, chū, and ge) are a fourth apart. The movement to and from each note is regulated…
Read More