#kayagum

[blue-jisungs]

red and blue colored jealousy

author's note. thank u zanna @slytherinshua for coloring the yul pic <333 i hope u enjoy it!!! the bestest boy ever :( also!! my yet another take on "eloquent" wording hehehehe 🤓☝️

word count. 1.9kish

warnings. its not a warning techinally lol but its fem!reader ++ reader is wearing a hanbok for women and has long hair.... theres no aos spoilers (i think) + its not specified when its taking place so feel free to interpret it ur way lol ++ not proof-read sorrrrryyyyyyyy

the tender music of kayagum, haegum, choktae and other instruments filled the room. the lights were slightly dimmed, a couple of candles casting shadows on the walls and curtains.

the crown prince sighed heavily, shifting on his seat.

“what is all of this?” he asked, fingers drumming against the wooden surface of the table. seo yul smiled softly, looking at uk.

“due to all the stress and hustle happening in the city, we decided to fill out spare time with some happiness” yul explained gently, nodding. park danggu shushed them, parting the table in excitement.

“it’s starting!”

go won was about to ask how could he tell but then some of the candles went out, as if a gust of wind did it. however, everyone felt a sudden invisible force causing them to shiver.

“did someone open the window…?” uk blinked and then they heard a faint rustle.

chwiseonru didn’t have a stage, to be frank. they just moved a couple of tables and cleared some space. the ladies sitting on the cushions, dressed in pink and purple coloured hanboks were on the ground. their fingers gently strummed their instruments, touches feather-alike.

suddenly, there were footsteps. everyone in the tavern noticed a woman.

she was wearing a black hanbok with crimson sewed details. small leaves and flowers adorned the cloth on the sides. she had her long hair braided, loosely put and swaying on her shoulder.

her hands were slim and her pointer finger was adorned with a red jewel. it shone beautifully, ruby and crimson glittering in the faint light. if one looked closer, they were about to realise it’s one of the half of ying and yang stone.

however, her face was hidden behind two fans. one of them was black with faint agate details, the other was an opposite – red with black sewings.

she held them in a way that hid her face, which only made the viewers more curious.

suddenly the pace of music fastened and the woman started flapping her fans a bit more rapidly. with swift and hypnotising moves of her body, she revealed her face.

she had some artistic makeup on her face: a curved line forming under her eyes that created a crooked circle, only to connect above her brows. two, small ruby stones were glued on her cheekbones symmetrically.

yul noticed the way the prince’s eyes widened, cheeks flushing and lips parting in awe. the mage scoffed, ignoring his friend’s gaze.

the performer moved gracefully, just like water. her moves were clean and gentle, the flutter of fans creating her own music. uk frowned upon noticing the similarities between some of her dance moves and chisu or even hwansu.

“she’s gorgeous” go won breathed out, his eyes focused on the dancer.

the performer’s face remained cold and expressionless, eyes trained in the audience. a brief eye contact with the prince caused him to smile and nod. whereas yul just clutched his fist, uk was growing more and more suspicious.

the song seemed to reach its climax, beat going faster and faster. nevertheless, the dancer didn’t fail to catch up, moves becoming more sharp and sturdy.

with a sudden thrust, the rest of the candles went out. briefly after, she finished the performance ending in the same position she started.

people started clapping and cheering, go won cleared his throat.

“who… is she?” he asked quietly, turning to the others. in the meantime, the servers lit up the candles again.

“l/n y/n” a female voice rung up from behind him, causing the crown prince to jerk in surprise.

yul sent you a soft smile, your face visible in the light once again.

the crown prince turned around and grabbed your hand, placing a gentle peck on the top of it.

“your performance was stunning. i have never seen anything like this in my entire life! the music, your moves and grace… truly breathtaking. how come i haven’t seen you perform before?” he asked, eyes sparking with adoration.

you chuckled sweetly, bowing elegantly.

“thank you, your highness. i had a break from performing… someone insisted i started dancing again which is why i’m here” you smiled and caught yul’s ebony irises on you. you couldn’t read his expression.

“thank gods that person convinced you. sincerely speaking, im fully mesmerised with you” the prince smirked, a playful smile dancing on his lips

“i’m pleased to hear that, my prince” you bowed once again, noticing uk’s sturdy gaze on you.

“i shall invite you to my castle one day”’ go won hummed. you nodded with a satisfied smile.

“i appreciate that you’re thinking so highly of me, my prince…” you started and looked above his head, only to meet seo yul’s gaze. you weren’t meant to finish as another compliment was landed at you.

“and your fans… may i have a look at them? they look absolutely stunning” he asked.

normally, you’d refuse. but it was the crown prince after all.

nodding and handing him your fans, you saw how he traced the detailed sewings on them.

“beautiful work. may i know by who was it made?” go won asked, rising his head up to look at you. he was amazed not only by your dancing skills but also your beauty. especially those e/c eyes.

“it was a gift from a dear friend of mine” you explained and took back the fans once he handed them to you.

“i see. will you perform again?” the crown prince asked, flirty tone in his voice.

you were meant to give just one dance.

but who were you to deny the majesty’s request?

you finished shortly after midnight, the moonlight sneaking through the windows. the prince wanted more and more, enchanted by you. only when he noticed that your musicians are getting tired, he decided to stop. bidding you farewell (not failing to shower you in compliments once again), he was gone. the ordinary people went home, leaving just a couple of drunkards and the mages left. they decided to return to the jeongjingak.

when you left, they stayed for a bit longer to finish their drinks. yul put his hands on his thighs, observing the crown prince.

“i’m really enchanted. who invited her?” the man asked. uk was about to snicker a joke about being so love-struck.

“yul! yul knows y/n, they’re good friends!” danggu yelled out, a bit more louder than he intended. yul felt his eyes widening as the prince’s thundering gaze shifted to him.

“seriously? and you never introduced me to her? seo yul, i’m disappointed” the crown prince tsked.

“i never knew you were a fan of such things, your highness” yul bowed his head and stood up. the sudden motion combined with couple of drops of alcohol in his system caused his vision to blur.

“ah, it’s a shame i only discovered her now. but better now than never, hm?” go win tilted his head and observed yul’s rosy cheeks.

“yul-ah, you seem distracted. is everything alright?” uk asked, worried. he stood up and placed a hand on his friend’s shoulder.

“yeah, i’m just tired. we shall go. i need to get one thing done and i’ll join you in jeongjingak” yul sighed. he bowed and left them, ignoring their weird looks.

there was a sudden knock at your door. you let out a sigh but your gaze didn’t leave your reflection in the mirror.

“i’m sorry, your highness, but the performance is over” you called, hands working on untying your braid.

“oh, my apologies. i just hoped for a quick chat with such an amazing dancer”

you turned around and your face lit up upon seeing yul. he smiled wildly when your eyes met.

“oh for you master yul… i suppose i could make some time” you teased. yul closed the door and approached you slowly, as you reassumed to unbraid your hair “did you enjoy the show?”

“oh, of course i did. anyone would be a fool not to enjoy it” he hummed, placing his hands on your arms and massaging them gently “a certain individual seemed to enjoy it especially…”

“oh?” you rose your eyebrows, meeting his dark-brown irises in the mirror’s reflection. his face was pensive, brows furrowed and jaw tensed.

he huffed and leaned a bit forward, grabbing your hair gently and putting it on your back. as he started to unbraid your hair tenderly, careful not to tug too harshly, you started to wipe off your performance makeup.

“the crown prince fell in love, i recon” he murmured, shrugging nonchalantly.

“with the performance? i mean, i’d be rather upset if the future king wasn’t entertained with my dance” you hummed and put away the dirty cloths, your face now bare.

“i think he was more found of you than the show itself, y/n” seo yul sighed and parted the last parts of your hair, finally letting it flow on your back loosely.

“hm… it flatters me, truly” you smiled and noticed his brows twitch “yul?”

“yes, dear?” he asked, sitting down next to you. he looked at the stone on your finger, smiling subconsciously.

“are you jealous?” asking, you raised the corner of your lip.

he just rolled his eyes playfully, yet no words were spoken.

“oh yul…” you giggled and poked his chest “you seemed to kill him with your gaze the second he opened his mouth while he was talking to me”

“stop talking such nonsense about the future head of the country…” seo yul grunted, avoiding your gaze. a slight blush adorned the tips of his ears.

he leaned and grabbed your fans, holding them gently.

you observed how he traced the black sewing, then moving to the red one. he was thinking about something, absentmindedly moving his fingers along the soft fabric.

“i’m sorry” you huffed, placing your hand over his “i tried to hold a distance but he was too…”

“it’s a future king, they tend to get too blind to notice someone is uncomfortable” yul scoffed and looked up at you, suddenly reaching out and holding your chin with his free hand. he tilted his head, a faint smirk dancing on his lips “but you’re mine”

“mhm” you hummed in agreement and waited for him to shorten the distance between you two.

as your lips finally met, your head went spiralling. every kiss with seo yul was like the first time, always so passionate and tender.

you’ve been dating yul for a while now, yet you were keeping your relationship secret from the public eye. and for the time you’ve spent with your lover, you noticed his habits… such as struggling to word out his love. however, his words just weren’t verbal: yul adored to shower you with gifts and small gestures.

like those fans you always perform with. or the finest performance makeup supplies he got from afar. or the handmade hanbok for you to perform in. or the musicians.

or the ring.

as you felt the air escaping your lungs, you moved your hand from his and put it at the back of his neck.

leaning away, you noticed his flushed cheeks.

“i’m yours, yul. not going anywhere, even if the prince offers me to rule the country” you chuckled and tapped his ring, the blue part that matched yours.

“good” yul huffed, noticing the gesture.

after all, the red and blue yin and yang jade was the symbol for ever lasting love for a reason.

masterlist <3

taglist. @laylasbunbunny ,, @slytherinshua ,, @jiwuu ,, @ameliesaysshooo ,, @planetkiimchi ,, @primoppang ,, @dazzlingligth

[papaya2000s]

The History of Korean Girl Groups' evolution over time - Before Liberation to Girls Generation (SNSD) -> Part 3

I would like to mention before you continue reading that I have been summarizing and briefly going over the information I found. I encourage you all to do further research on this topic as it is very interesting, especially for those interested in older Kpop/Korean Music like myself.

As I mentioned earlier, there is a lot of information available, but at the same time, there isn't much specifically about the music side of Korea's history. I will provide sources for all my posts at the end if anyone is interested.

Now, let me give you a quick summary of becoming a Kisaeng. For more detailed information, you can refer to my previous post. In this post, I will continue discussing what Kisaeng's did up until the 1930s.

Becoming a Kisaeng

The Kisaeng was a skilled working class, and was established in the Joseon period through various paths. Women were either daughters of Kisaeng or sold into the class by families struggling to support them. The government took an early interest in ensuring correct education, starting with the establishment of Gyobang (교방;敎坊) training institutes during the Goryeo period.

Young Kisaeng's with a Gayageum/ Kayagum (가야금;伽倻琴). A traditional Korean musical instrument.

During the Joseon period, instructors focused on music and dance. The three-tiered system of later Joseon included specialized training schools for Kisaeng, covering poetry, dance, music, and art. This system continued into the Japanese colonial period, during which time the schools training Kisaeng were known as Gwonbeon (권번).

Kisaeng and Geisha

During my investigation into the history of Kisaeng, I initially believed that Kisaeng would remain unchanged and continue to be uniquely Korean. However, I discovered that the training and education of Kisaeng underwent significant changes when Japan colonized Korea in 1910. Note - I am not saying that Geisha and Kisaeng's are the same, one is better than the other, or they copied each other, both Geisha and Kisaeng cultures are different the only similarities that they have are that they were highly-trained artist women who entertained men with music, conversation, and poetry.

Gisaeng were highly skilled entertainers who excelled in various art forms such as poetry, calligraphy, painting, dancing, and singing. They were the only women in a strictly hierarchical society who had the opportunity to engage in these activities traditionally associated with men. These talented women received rigorous training at institutions like Janghakwon, which was responsible for music and dance at royal ceremonies during the Joseon Dynasty. Even after the government's disappearance, private Kisaeng schools continued their role, providing comprehensive education that included not only traditional arts but also foreign arts.

Panoramic view and class scenes of gisaeng school in Pyongyang.

Unfortunately, the culture surrounding gisaeng underwent significant distortion during the late Joseon Dynasty. The Kisaeng system was abolished in 1909, leaving restaurants as the only platform for Kisaeng performances. The image of gisaeng was further distorted when the Japanese government introduced a public singing system that grouped gisaeng with prostitutes and entertainers. As a result, Kisaeng began to be perceived as courtesans or individuals lacking traditional artistic value. In contrast, Geisha in Japan have managed to survive and maintain their revered status as entertainers to this day. However, some Kisaeng's managed to adapt to the changing times and emerged as popular stars through mediums like radio, magazines, and movies.

Japanese Kisaeng (Geisha)

Geisha, or Yegi (藝者), is a term used to describe Japanese Kisaeng, a system that originated in Japan between 1688 and 1704. Geisha's were skilled in traditional Japanese arts and were responsible for delivering professional hospitality. Initially men, they changed in the 18th century when women took over the role. Geisha's are known for their vibrant and elegant kimonos, which they pair with red lips against their white-powdered faces.

During the Japanese colonial period, the Gwonbeonbeon in Seoul was different from traditional Korean Kisaengbeonbeon. Japanese brothels were more akin to Yechanggi (藝娼妓), public servants in brothels, aiming to centralize prostitution in specific areas and prevent private brothels from spreading into residential neighborhoods. By 1924, the number of brothels in Japan had increased significantly, reaching 544 establishments.

The Shinmachi red-light district in Seoul was a prominent location for prostitution during the Japanese colonial period. The Shinmachi Red House Association was formed in the western part of the district, where customers could personally select women from a lineup or through numbered photo albums displayed on the walls of the establishments.

Photo of the Midori-machi brothel in Busan during the Japanese colonial period.

The history of'resthouse villages' reflects the remnants of Japan's colonial rule and its impact on various regions. For example, the Wanwol-dong brothel village in Busan traces its roots back to the establishment of the 'Midorimachi Red Center' in 1907. This area, referred to as Sohwatong by the Japanese, served as a hub for brothels that eventually spread across the country.

The transition from the 'public brothel system' to the post-liberation era marked a shift in the dynamics of these villages, reflecting the changing socio-political landscape over time.

In modern times, it is important to note that some women who engage solely in prostitution may falsely identify themselves as Geisha's, disregarding the true essence of the profession.

The Pyongyang Kisaeng School tourist attraction during the Japanese colonial period

The historical significance of the Pyongyang Kisaeng School, which was a renowned tourist attraction during the Japanese colonial period, greatly contributes to the cultural heritage of the Korean Entertainment Industry. The abundance of information available about the school's existence and operation during that time period adds to its historical value. This knowledge not only enhances our understanding of the school's role in Korean entertainment but also sheds light on the broader historical context in which it thrived.

During the Goryeo and Joseon periods, Kisaeng's attended training institutes to receive proper education. The government showed early interest in this by establishing Gyobang, a training institute during the Goryeo period. This educational system continued into the Japanese colonial period, where Kisaeng training schools were called Gwonbeon.

In the 1930s, many tourist groups visiting Joseon were eager to see Kisaeng's, and the most sought-after place to witness their traditional beauty was the Pyongyang Kisaeng School. Originally named 'Pyongyang Giseonggwonbeon Kisaeng Training Center,' (평양 기성권번 기생양성소) it operated as a three-year school near the Daedong/ Taedong River (대동강), with support from around 10 large-scale restaurants in the area.

Photo postcard from Pyongyang Kisaeng School

During that period, the curriculum varied for each grade, with different content for each of the three years. First-year students were taught songs like Ujo (우조;羽調) and Gyemyeonjo (계면조;界面調), along with subjects like Pyeongsijo (평시아), Gojo (고조;高調), Saseojo (사서조;詞說調), the Four Gentlemen, Chinese rhymes, Korean language, and arithmetic.

Moving on to the second year, students learned more advanced Sijo such as Gwansan Yungma (관산융��;完山龍馬), Baekgusa (백구사;白口寺), Hwanggyesa (황계사), and Eobusa (에부사), as well as various musical instruments like Saenghwang, flute, Yanggeum, Geomungo, and Jeotdae.

The third year excluded Yangsando and Bangataryeong from the curriculum due to their perceived lower level, and instead focused on teaching Seungmu, Geommu, and dance based on guest requests.

Pyongyang Kisaeng school class scene

A Kisaeng school that was just like a school

Upon graduating, they relocated to various cities such as Seoul, Sinuiju, or Daegu, with approximately 70% of the 180 graduates choosing to go abroad. While many students who enrolled in the Kisaeng school hailed from Pyongyang, there were also a significant number from Seoul, Hwanghae Province, and Pyeongan Province. The school boasted two esteemed masters, Park Myeong-hwa and Gimhae-sa, who taught singing, while painting was taught by Suam.

In 1934, four years later, the number of students increased to 250 and the subjects taught at Pyeongyang Kisaeng School underwent changes. The curriculum offered a surprisingly diverse range of subjects, providing students with a comprehensive education.

The Pyongyang Kisaeng School catered to children aged between 13 and 15 who had completed the 6th grade of regular school. Similar to a girls' school, it operated on a semester system and charged monthly tuition fees. For first-year students, the monthly payment was 2 won, while second-year students paid the same amount. Third-year students, on the other hand, had a slightly higher monthly fee of 3 won. Additionally, there was an admission fee of 3 won for each student.

Pyongyang Kisaeng School professor’s subject

In my view, when comparing the education of Kisaeng students to the training of modern idols, there are striking similarities between them both. For instance, foreign members of idol groups must learn Korean, while both foreign and Korean members are required to master skills such as singing, dancing, playing instruments if necessary, and even writing lyrics before making their debut. Both Kisaeng students and idols are required to dedicate themselves fully to their craft, demonstrating a commitment to excellence and a willingness to continually improve their skills in order to achieve their goals.

The first semester ran from April 1 to August 31, the second semester from September 1 to December 31, and the third semester from January 1 to March 31. President Ki Seong-kwon (기성권) served as the principal of this school. Pyongyang's Kisaeng school gained a reputation and attracted visitors from Shanghai, Nanjing, Tokyo, Osaka, Seoul, and other locations.

I couldn't find any pictures of President Ki Seong-kwon (기성권) who served as the principal for the Kisaeng School.

The study learned at Kisaeng school is Kisaeng (妓學) - Prostitution.

During the period of Japanese colonial rule, schools were closely monitored by the security police. Women who pledged their allegiance as Japanese imperial subjects were then enlisted as members of the Ministry of Defense. In this context, the purpose of establishing schools for Kisaeng, who were considered the epitome of entertainment and laughter at social gatherings, was to provide them with vocational education.

Kisaeng were regarded as professional women who inherited their skills from previous generations, and as such, these schools focused on teaching various crafts, techniques, and even Gihak.

Pyongyang Kisaeng school western dance performance practice scene.

1939 Pyongyang Kisaeng School 3rd grade class schedule

The timetable provided showcases the class schedule for 210 third-grade students at Pyeongyang Kisaeng School back in 1939. The classes were named after a 'Japanese spear', reflecting the diverse range of subjects taught at the school. Notably, the schedule did not include departments such as Changga and Dance for the first year, and Sijo and Akjeon for the second year.

This comprehensive curriculum was so varied that it was considered a single discipline known as ‘Gihak (妓學)’. The students were carefully assigned to fields based on their strengths by senior Kisaeng's and renowned female teachers who excelled in spear techniques. They were instructed in various skills, including playing the gayageum, based on their proficiency levels. Initially, they were taught how to produce sounds, a challenging task that required rigorous training for 3 to 4 months, during which they refrained from eating to master a wide range of tones.

Furthermore, the students were trained in the pronunciation of custom sounds and the proper way to strike their knees, following a step-by-step guide on hand and leg movements. Approximately 50 to 60 female students emulated these movements, swaying their shoulders gracefully and singing in unison. The dance performances at the Kisaeng school were renowned for their sword and monk dances during that era.

However, by the late 1930s, these dances were merely symbolic, reflecting a decline in interest in classical arts among the audience. The curriculum also included classes on 'etiquette' and 'conversation', where students learned the art of serving and interacting with male customers. Detailed instructions were provided on every aspect of hosting a banquet, from walking and sitting to pouring drinks, making facial expressions, bidding farewell to guests, and entertaining them in the kitchen. While technical skills were essential for excelling as a Kisaeng, there was also an emphasis on innate talent and the ability to captivate men through charm.

The presence of exemplary Kisaeng seniors within the school environment further enriched the learning experience, as the school was closely associated with the Kisaeng office, fostering a culture of mentorship and guidance.

In the 14th Showa edition of Modern Japan/Joseon, there is an article titled "What is taught in gisaeng schools ?" It is written by a person named Han Jae-deok (韓載德) who  went to Pyongyang's gisaeng school to report on it, it contained the fact that there are 210 students and the third-year schedule.

Pyongyang Kisaeng School

The Pyongyang Kisaeng School has been known for producing some of the most talented Kisaeng/ Korean singers who made a significant impact on the music scene during the 1930s. Graduates from this prestigious school have gone on to dominate the popular music industry, showcasing their exceptional skills and captivating performances.

The Kisaeng school in Bubyeokru, Pyongyang, is a 70-year-old establishment that combines Korean and Western influences. The school is known for its unique atmosphere, with a mix of Korean and Western houses. The school features a dance classroom, a musician's seat, and a meeting place for famous Nogis to share their experiences and receive ethics education.

The downstairs classroom is a song classroom decorated like the largest hall in Seoul, with 80 to 90 students learning meditation songs and singing. The school also has an unblocked oriental medicine room, where students can establish their voice through noise.

The calligraphy and painting room is a required subject for first-year students, requiring them to practice meditation with the Mindless Pen. The school has about 250 students, who are taught in three semesters. In the first year, students learn song, calligraphy, painting, singing, Korean language, arithmetic, and Korean. In the second year, they learn Ujo, Sijo, Gasa, Korean language, arithmetic, calligraphy, painting, singing, and dance. In the third year, students learn lyrics, dance, miscellaneous songs, singing, Japanese songs, Eastern and Western music, calligraphy and painting, and martial arts.

In summary, the gisaeng school in Bubyeokru (부벽루) is a unique blend of Korean and Western influences, offering a unique learning experience for students.

A photo postcard showing Gisaeng performing orchestral music.

Soruses:

https://terms.naver.com/entry.naver?docId=1763526&cid=49230&categoryId=49230

https://terms.naver.com/entry.naver?docId=6539877&cid=69239&categoryId=42967

https://terms.naver.com/entry.naver?docId=2401256&cid=62040&categoryId=62040

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kisaeng#cite_ref-61

https://terms.naver.com/entry.naver?docId=6539880&cid=69239&categoryId=42967

[mybeingthere]

The photograph doesn't have credits but it is of a Korean shamanic dance like the one from YouTube I've attached in in the comments.

Bongsan Story Teller shares:

"Salpuri is a Korean folk dance that was originally used in Korean shamanism after performing an exorcism.Dance has been a crucial part of Korean culture for the past five thousand years.During the exorcism, the shaman removes the "sal," meaning a curse, evil spell, or negative energy from the person by absorbing it into herself.

Therefore, in order to banish the "sal" from her own psyche, she performs the Salpuri dance.Additionally, it is used to express beauty and sadness in both relationships.

Nowadays it is most frequently performed as an artistic dance because it is considered one of Korea's most creative traditional dances.

Salpuri is always performed as a solo, usually by the most senior dancer in the group, and wears a white hanbok dress, and carries a long white handkerchief.In the background, accompanying the dancer are musicians playing instruments like a kayagum (long twelve-stringed zither), piri (bamboo oboe), ajaeng (long bowed zither), and janggo."

[cosmicanger]

playing a kayagum, a Korean musical instrument with 12 silk strings and matching bridges

H. Edward Kim

[tanukiboya]

日本文化舎の主催事業「清明の会」の「日本の伝統芸」シリーズ、デザインを担当した3本目は、12/4、京都の能楽堂嘉祥閣で「日本の音色・大陸の音色」。東アジアの箏の聴き比べでござい。 日本の箏（岡村愛さん）、韓国の伽耶琴（金明美さん）、中国の��箏（伍芳さん）……と書き並べてると、シルクロードをさかのぼって、弦楽器のルーツをたどる旅に出る気分になるニャ(´∀`) 落ちついた年代の女性3人の演者ってことで、品良く美しくってトコロをめざしたノダ。箏の弦からの発想で、細い罫線を多用したノダ。ポートレイトは楽器といっしょにおさまったモノでそろえでござい。 #日本文化舎 #清明の会 #箏 #伽耶琴 #古箏 #岡村愛 #金明美 #伍芳 #石川陽春 #デザイン #京都 #能楽堂嘉祥閣 #狸坊関西 #koto #soh #kayagum #guzheng #asianharp #ishikawakiyoharu #design #kyoto #kashokakunohtheater (能楽堂嘉祥閣) https://www.instagram.com/p/CjRmIsqrCY0/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[nnamdiabana]

This is indeed a major #throwback! At this time, I was called to serve my fatherland through the #NYSC in far away northern #Nigeria. #Azare, #BauchiState. Everything about the service year was divinely orchestrated. The camp fellowship, the outreach meetings, the pioneering of ICPC, Road Safety activities and the cordiality expressed by the people of Azare. I won't forget the magnanimity of the late Majimaji #Kayagum, Alhaji Umaru Ahmed and uncle Lemdy Anako. Anything I recall my service year, I give thanks to God almighty for everything. I'm confident of this very thing, that he who has begun a good work in me will perfect it until the day of Jesus Christ. #throwbackthursay https://www.instagram.com/p/B3JmyuwgfUq/?igshid=12oh6txhp5j6q

[doomandgloomfromthetomb]

Scattered Melodies: Korean Kayagum Sanjo

Bandcamp Monday! This one comes from the venerable Sublime Frequencies label -- it’s a fascinating collection of 78rpm Korean kayagum sanjo music recorded from the 1920s to the 1950s, compiled by Robert Millis (Climax Golden Twins). 

The details: Sanjo, meaning "scattered melodies," is a form of stylized string improvisation developed in the 1890s originally for the Korean kayagum, a smaller distant cousin of the Japanese koto. Stark and haunting, falling in the gaps between folk and classical music, kayagum sanjo employs a gradually increasing tempo, focused improvisation (the "scattering of melodies"), elastic rhythms, and intense snaps and vibrato that seem to power through the hazy abstractions of the 78rpm recording technology (these are old, exceedingly rare records that have survived nearly insurmountable odds: invasion, occupation, war, division).

Really amazing, unique stuff! Dig in. 

[the-princes-if]

What are the ROs hobbies?What do they like to do to pass time?

Byeol: when he's not doing what he does, byeol likes to read books,study and experiment on stuff regarding medicine and poison, he also likes watching the stars at night.

Feiye: is always training but when he's not training, he likes scouting/watching,woodwork and gardening.

Xingye: likes swimming, archery. He also likes playing the kayagum or gayageum(korean plucked zither).

Sunhoe: likes cooking,collecting and Calligraphy.

[mia-japanese-korean]

Kayagum, Unknown Korean, 19th century, Minneapolis Institute of Art: Japanese and Korean Art

12 string instrument; circle and crescent openings at bottom reflected in top inlay at one short end; mother-of-pearl inlay, two birds and moon in clouds at upper surface, sides adorned by birds and plants; underside grain appears to look like oak Kayagum, a twelve string zither, is related to the Chinese ch'in and the Japanese koto. It is played by plucking the strings with the right hand while depressing the strings for tonal variations with the left hand. Such musical instruments were often elaborately embellished with mother-of-pearl inlay. This kayagum has designs of flying cranes, symbols of longevity, and other auspicious symbols. Size: 4 1/8 x 56 3/4 x 8 in. (10.48 x 144.15 x 20.32 cm) Medium: Wood, lacquer and inlaid mother-of-pearl

https://collections.artsmia.org/art/5180/

[kayagum]

As the joyful days of summer come to an end and the abundant autumn arrives, we’re thrilled to welcome the new season at Kayagum! 🍁 Just as autumn leaves transform the landscape with their vibrant colours, we’ve refreshed our menu to bring new delights to your table. Starting today, we’re excited to unveil a variety of delicious new dishes!

Come join us and savour the flavours of the season. We can’t wait to share this fresh start with you!

[chemicalpink]

대취타 | EMPEROR!YOONGI X READER | PART THREE

Pairing: Emperor!Yoongi x Assassin!Reader

Words: 2.3k

Genre: Emperor AU, Historical AU (kinda), smut but its kinda soft.

Warnings: unprotected sex (wrap it before you tap it, you know the drill) 

A/N: I hope you like this as much as I did! this part is the sole reason as to why I started this lil au tbh.  Let me know what you think! As always, thank you for reading! 

PART 1 | PART 2 | PART 3 | PART 4 

“Great. I was hoping you were still awake” Yoongi said, making you jump from the seat you had claimed in the large library, watching carefully the emperor’s figure as he made his way towards you. He seemed exhausted, his hair the most disheveled you had ever seen it.

You opened your mouth to say something but closed it right after, denying the thought with a movement of your head.

“What are you doing here? It’s almost midnight and you’ve got an event tomorrow” 

As time went by and the bickering took a pleasant back and forth, you had also become more involved in the political aspects of the palace; truth be told, you had been avoiding him ever since that time in his office as rumours started going around, making more than just a few of consorts jealous enough to mess with you, in attempt to make your life as barely tolerable as possible, you had to remind yourself a thousand times that you were most definitely no missing Min Yoongi, although you had to admit that his presence offered some relief in a sense from the hectic life you led inside the palace.

“You’ve come from classic literature to history?” Yoongi stole a glance at the books that were lying on top of the small table, arching an eyebrow

“I read what pleases me” 

The silence that followed wasn’t quite comfortable as he dropped into a chair just next to yours; his leg brushing yours.

You cleared your throat, mind hazy as you didn’t give it a second thought before the words were leaving your lips “I don’t think it is wise of you to be here with me”

A frown crossed his attractive face.

“And why is that?” he replied. 

At that time you were extremely conscious about how close his leg was to you, but you made no attempt to move away.

“Aren’t you worried about what people may talk around the palace? It tends to get quite toxic around here”

Yoongi leaned towards you and looked you in the eye. You found yourself clearing your throat for the second time that night 

“I’m not worried about myself if that’s what you’re thinking,” you said abruptly, pulling away from him a little. It wasn't entirely true, so far you’d had a taste as to how far a jealous consort could go, very much into physical damage. “I’m just saying that it might damage your public image. For you to be meeting with a servant like me, late at night behind closed doors”

“And may I know ever since when have you been concerned about my public image?”

“Ever since apparently I became the one in charge not only to handle your dirty business but your public appearances too. Perhaps you should focus more on keeping track of the political matters rather than playing around with your toys in the harem”

“Any other requirements?” asked Yoongi, who was still close enough for his lips to brush yours if he dared to do such a thing. 

“I’ll let you know if any comes to mind”

Your eyes met and you gave him a slight smile.

What type of man was the one right in front you supposed to be? It wasn’t exactly that you had gone soft for him, but you had to admit that from time to time it felt nice to have someone around in such a grand space, even if the only to be close enough was none other than the Emperor himself.

You removed from your thoughts the feeling of longing in your chest. There was no way after what you both had done with each other to suddenly grow soft. 

“Why is your hair so dishevelled? Has Yanli been playing with you so hard?”

“Yanli? Not in the past few months, fortunately. But I had the most depressing day ever! The puppies are ordinary and-” he brought his hands to his head

“Puppies?”

“One of my dogs has given birth to a litter of crossbreeds. They were too young to tell before, but now- Anyway, I expected pedigree animals”

“Are we talking about dogs or–?”

“What would you prefer?” Yoongi smirked

“Oh shut up” you muttered, making him laugh.

“Care to explain why is it that you look so dishevelled” the emperor's laugh was cut off, “Hoseok told me you two attended some official event, I hope it wasn’t one of the stuck up ones”

“Not at all. I haven’t been able to sleep well, that’s all”

“Neither have I” he recognised and stretched in his place “Would you mind playing the kayagum for me?”

You dropped your foot to the ground and wondered how the subject could have changed so easily. A completely different air taking over the room. One that was the reason for your insomnia ever since the sexual encounters between the two of you had shifted to longing glances across the room, subtle brushes of hands and minds running on images that were no doubt anything but a product of very creative imagination.

“Of course not”

“But you played wonderfully last night”

“If I had known someone was spying on me, I would not have played” 

“Why is playing something so personal for you?” Yoongi asked leaning back in the chair and you felt yourself slipping into dangerous and uncharted territory.

“I can't listen to or play music without– whatever.”

“No, say what you were about to say”

“It’s nothing interesting” you replied while stacking the books that were on the table.

“Does it bring back memories?”

You looked at him for some sign of ridicule, finding in his eyes a feeling of sweetness and compassion instead.

“Sometimes”

“Memories of your parents?” Yoongi reached out to help you stack the remaining books.

You stood abruptly.

“Don’t ask stupid questions, Yoongi”

“I'm sorry I meddled”

You did not answer. The question, mixed with the environment in which you were with Yoongi, had opened a crack in the mental door that you always had closed, and now you were trying to close it at all costs. Seeing Yoongi's face and seeing him so close to you ... The door had to be most definitely locked.

“It’s just– It’s just that I know nothing about you.”

“I’m an assassin” you replied, trying to ground yourself “There’s no need for you to know more about me”

“I know” Yoongi said with a sigh “But why is it so bad for me to want to know more? Like, how did you become one? Or how was your life before that?”

“Trust me, it’s not interesting”

“Well I wouldn’t find it boring”

Once again, you didn’t answer.

“Please. Just one question and I promise it won’t be anything delicate” Yoongi had suddenly made a go for your hand to intertwine with his, his thumb making small circles on the back of it ever so lightly.

You twisted your mouth, your eyes fixed on the surface where both your hands seemed to melt together in something you weren’t able to pinpoint.

“No”

Yoongi smiled “You have beautiful eyes, you know?”

“If you’re trying to court me with sweet talk, I’m afraid it won’t work”

Looking right back into his brown eyes, something came alive only for it to die down just as fast as Yoongi stopped caressing your hand and tugged at your wrist to have you sit down on his lap.

Yoongi’s fingers are cold against your skin, the tips tracing delicately along the exposed skin of your thigh as his hand had made its way under the sleeping hanbok you wore. Your teeth hurt your bottom lip, a gasp escaping from them as his slow teasing movements make their way to your clothed core in the gentlest way possible. 

He grazes your clit with his thumb and you find yourself uncomfortably arching your back against him “Now you can't resist responding to everything I say, right, kitten?” his teeth gently grazing the soft spot where your ear meets your neck and you writhe beneath him, unable to fulfil the growing need that pools between your legs.

“Now tell me, love, why is it that you love music?”

You let out a strangled moan as he kept the slowest pace possible on your clit

“You–you said it wouldn’t be anything delicate” you whispered and attempted to turn to scowl at him

Yoongi’s fingers manoeuvred their way to pull your panties apart, skilled fingers now caressing your wet folds “Just answer the question”

A large sigh left your lips at his touch “I love music” you said slowly, trying to keep a steady mind “because when I hear it I- I get lost in it a-and I feel like I pour myself out and fill myself with it at the same time. When I play I’m not- agh I’m not destroying, but creating” you bit your lip once again as his index finger teased your entrance “I used to dream of being a doctor, you know? I’ve never told anyone about that” you felt yourself clench at the way Yoongi was entering his fingers inside you stuffing you full, he laughed lowly and stopped his movements, removing his hand completely, making you able to see him smile “Don’t laugh at me”

The emperor denied your claim with his head and the smile left his lips

“I’m not laughing at you.  I’m just not used to-”

“People pouring their heart out to you?”

“Well, yeah, especially not while I have my hand down their pants”

You smiled a somewhat wicked smile at him.

“Well then, I think It is my turn now” you were quickly to find his already hard member inside your hand, pumping it to life,leaving wet kissed along his exposed neck as he reclined himself “Is there any limitation?”

“Not at all” Yoongi placed his hands on the back of his head “I’m not even half as reserved as you are”

A grin appeared on your face as you thought about the question, opting to play him a little bit further before asking.

Your tongue finds his already leaking length and  you bask yourself in the sweetest noise he makes, his hand coming forward to stop you from taking him in your mouth.

You both pause, eyes meeting, reading each other. He smirks at you, a smugness in it when he makes his way to you on the floor, the chair screeching the floor, forcefully taking you down with him as he slams his lips on yours, hands fidgeting with each others’ clothes in an overwhelming rush to take them completely off.

Once the body heat envelops you both, contrasting the cold floor, partially covered by a carpet you currently found yourselves in, he rushes to cover your body in chaste kisses at the same time as a new heatwave hits you from him entering you. 

“Yoongi” you whine, making him look straight into your eyes “I’ve got my question”

“Go ahead, kitten,” he said, diving in to place a kiss on your lips, his right hand keeping him up while he thrusted deliciously into you, skin slapping and lewd noises filling the otherwise silent room, his left hand finding yours as a way to ground himself to the moment.

“Why aren’t you married yet?” you felt him stop dead in his tracks for a second too long, his dick almost losing contact with your pussy only for him to thrust it back in with a little more force than necessary

“Ask me another question”

His slow pace but forceful thrust were hitting a certain spot of yours  that he had become way too familiar with over your time in the palace, knowing perfectly that he was purposedly doing it for you to drop the topic, you pressed once again “I wanna hear your answer– If you resist so vehemently it must be interesting”

You heard him groan as he found his face nuzzled into your neck “I’m not married” he said in a low voice, untangling his left hand from yours to caress your face “because I can’t stand the idea of marrying a woman that is inferior to me in mind and spirit” he trailed kisses along your throat up to your jaw, making sure to mark it “ That would mean the death of my soul” 

“Marriage is a legal contract, it is not something sacred. Being the emperor, you should have given up those crazy ideas. What if you have to get married for an alliance? Would you really declare war because of your romantic ideals?” 

“Things–” he grunts and pulls back slowly “are not–”and pushes his way back in, groaning “that way”

You could tell something had snapped inside him, and you were sure to have your fun with it  “Huh? Then you wouldn’t marry a princess to strengthen your empire?”

“I’ve already got an army to take care of that”

A mewl makes its way out of your mouth as his shaft slides in and out of your body “You can always love another woman aside. Marriage for you doesn’t mean you can’t love other people”

Yoongi’s eyes burned holes into yours.

“One must marry the person they love and none other” he said as he struggled once more to keep his pace and you laughed “You’re making fun of me! You’re laughing in my face!” 

“You deserve to be laughed at for having such stupid ideas! I spoke to you from the heart; you only speak from selfishness”

“You are incredibly judgmental, Y/N” you were still smiling up at him as he dived down to capture your lips, moans constantly escaping both of you as you quietly and gracefully approached your own highs together, him spilling his seed inside you.

Forehead resting against your own as you found yourselves panting, him sliding out as your spasming cunt dripped with both of your releases onto the floor, placing one more soft kiss on your lips with his eyes closed “Marry me”

[moryen]

Love this album, I think I’m going to use some samples for my beats

[paganess]

Korean Yōkai playing a kayagum

[jae-h]

In my mums bedroom 🇰🇷🌹 #seoul #byungkihwang #walkman #sony #jaeho #kayagum #masterpiece #korean #koreanmusic #koreanwave (at Seoul, South Korea)

[dustedmagazine]

Joe Morris / Do Yeon Kim — Macrocosm (Glacial Erratic)

Morris photo by Scott Friedlander

Macrocosm by Joe Morris and Do Yeon Kim

It’s tempting to listen to an improvised duo reductively, since doing so allows the listener a relatively obvious way to comprehend what’s happening. There’s the personal history of each player, and the history of their instruments. There’s the agreed-upon and discovered traditions (or lack thereof) invoked by both the players and instrumental combinations. And there’s the influence of situation.  

In this case you have veteran American multi-instrumentalist Joe Morris wielding an acoustic guitar. In addition to playing jazz-rooted and free improvisation with the likes of Mary Halvorson, Gerald Cleaver and Anthony Braxton, Morris also teaches at the New England Conservatory. Do Yeon Kim is that institution’s first enrolled gayageum player. Her instrument (sometimes also called a kayagum) is a Korean zither related to the Chinese ghuzeng and the Japanese Koto that can be heard in both classical and folk music. Kim may be the first musician to bring her instrument to the NEC, but she’s by no means the first to improvise with it. It is one of the key instruments used in sanjo, a musical style that dates from the 19th century.

Sanjo involves improvisational development of melodies and tempos; to hear how it sounded during the early years of sound recording, check out the LP Scattered Melodies. To these ears, there are clear roles. The gayageum articulates tunes and spaces, while the accompanying percussionist adds emphasis and regulates tension. Freed from tradition’s prescriptions, Kim not only plucks stark, fragmented tunes. She also exploits the zither’s potential to generate rich, writhing thickets of sound. 

The improvisations on Macrocosm involve a moment-to-moment negotiation of responsibility reminiscent of the free approaches first associated with English players like Derek Bailey, Evan Parker and John Stevens. Morris’ crab-walking progressions, sudden string-snaps, and occasional forays into unconventional techniques all betray his deep acquaintance with that music. Kim may not have as many decades of practice and study on her side, but she displays an intuitive grasp of one of that music’s existential dilemmas; do you create a dialogue via attentive response, or do you go your own way and trust that the combination of what each player does will create an instant form that is worth the sonic and temporal space it takes up?  

At any given moment the answer might lay at a different point on the spectrum, and both Kim and Morris travel it with lightning fingering and split-second decisions about the values of contrast and complementarity. So while one can glean a lot by listening analytically, the album title’s prescription is at least as valid. The universe contains many people and worlds, and so does this music made by two people who, as the saying goes, contain multitudes. So let go, fall in, and see where the winds of sound, reaction, and intuition take you.  

Bill Meyer

[sivavakkiyar]

“BIG RED! honors the Old Fred Ho’s iconic influences: Malcolm X (nick-named during his early years as “big red” for his height and reddish hair) and Mao Zedong (who indeed was a “big red,” a giant of the 20th century who led a socialist revolution for one-quarter of humanity, confronted with unimaginable obstacles). This important recording also honors the late Sam Furnace, friend and member of the AAME for two decades, who passed away in early 2004, with the Chamber Music America-commissioned work, Suite Sam Furnace. Also featured are amazing new Afro Asian ground-breaking works: Kaya’s Song featuring vocalist-kayagum performer Rami Seo (singing in Korean); a work in support of the movement to free America’s most renown death row political prisoner, Mumia Abu-Jamal (Free Mumia! Suite); Gadzo, based on traditional warriors music from the Ewe people of now-Ghana; an instrumental rebuttal to Branford Marsalis’ denunciating comments about the 1960s avant-garde promoted in Ken Burns’ propagandistic film, Jazz (The Ur…! and Ir…! Suite); and the eponymous work, featuring Fred Ho’s poetic recitation in homage to Archie Shepp (Big Red!).“