Led by former Chief Court Musicians from the Music Department belonging to the Imperial Household Agency’s Board of Ceremonies, this ensemble will give instrumental and vocal performances of gagaku (ancient court music) in four European countries.

The performances are scheduled to include the particularly secret ritual music “kagura-uta”, as well as “choshi” and “jobuki” pieces with instrumental solos and an “omeri-buki” playing style rarely performed on a conventional stage.

In addition, a lecture will introduce the history of gagaku instruments as well as performance methods and styles, outlining Japanese aesthetic senses and values which have been passed down for about 1, 300 years.

The performances in Ireland will mark the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Ireland.