Of Interest Column Of Interest Column
An Introduction to the mysteries of Okinawan Music and its tremendous history. Each of the various music styles that have blossomed throughout history in Okinawa has its own story woven into it. In this column we explore the threads of the mystery of this magnificent musical legacy.
(Reference: "Okinawa Uta no Tabi" by Makoto Aoki)
The origin of Eisa Folk Dancing, lost to history Transcending 800 Years of Time and Space
How were the Omoro ballads sung? Dynasty of Ryukyuan Classical Music
Okinawan Sentiments in 8-8-8-6 Rhyme What is the origin of the Ryukyuan musical scale?

- Okinawan Sentiments in 8-8-8-6 Rhyme -

Mainland Japanese verse is generally in the 7-7-7-5 meter, but the Okinawan 8-8-8-6 is what has come to best express the sentiment of Okinawan hearts. Japanese Tanka poetry is generally literature based while the Ryuka (Okinawan classical verse) also incorporates folk songs and ballads familiar to the people. Ryuka, though having been first formulated in the royal court, soon spread among the common folk and into their sacred rites, banquets and entertainment. In this way the 8-8-8-6 meter spread past the rigidity of its literature model. The 8-8-8-6 meter, rather than being strictly sacred or religious in nature, is people's music and entertainment. It is greatly related to the sentiments of the Okinawans.

Okinawan Sentiments
Photo : Hiroshi Shimabukuro (STUDIO PLANET)