Foreman takes on the pervasive conception of Japanese geisha as exploited erotic entertainers, and argues that the center of their professional lives is their dedication to traditional Japanese performing arts. this book is an insightful read, both informative and entertaining, bringing to life an area of Japanese society that continues to be steeped in myth and intrigue.’ Bulletin of the School of Oriental and African Studies ’In this well-crafted book, Kelly M.
The final chapter is especially engaging. Much of the material about geisha repertoire and history is not readily available in English.
’This is the first book to focus on the art (gei) of the geisha and to position musical skills at the center of geisha life and identity. An important issue here is geisha-patron artistic collaboration, which leads to consideration of what Foreman argues to be the unique and essential nexus of identity, eroticism and aesthetics within the geisha world. Considering the current situation more closely, the final chapters explore actual dedication to art today by geisha, and analyse how they create impromptu performances at evening banquets. Subsequent chapters detail the myriad musical genres and traditions with which geisha have been involved during their artistic history, as well as their position within the traditional arts society. The book opens by deconstructing the idea of 'geisha' as it functions in Western societies in order to understand why gei has been, and continues to be, neglected in geisha studies. The book elaborates how musical art is an essential part of the identity of the Japanese geisha rather than a secondary feature, and locates current practice within a tradition of two and half centuries. Foreman brings together ethnomusicological field research, including studying and performing the shamisen among geisha in Tokyo, with historical research. Numerous books exist on the topic, yet this is the first to focus on the 'gei' of geisha - the art that constitutes their title (gei translates as fine art, sha refers to person).
The Japanese geisha is an international icon, known almost universally as a symbol of traditional Japan.
0 kommentar(er)
