July 1999

Volume and ma

There is no set rhythm in honkyoku. Therefore, the question of where to end one note (how long to extend it) and where to begin the next one is crucial in determining the character of the honkyoku. When a player accomplishes this well, we say that they “have good ma”. [Translator’s note: Ma is usually translated as “timing”, but it also includes the concept of the space between the notes.]

Most people know that ma is very important, but many seem not to realize that it is also deeply connected with volume. It is not only necessary to take timing into account when deciding where to end and begin notes, but also volume dynamics.

Indeed, one way of looking at it is that you create ma by introducing volume dynamics into your phrasing.

So, if you find that you have good pitch and good tone color, but your honkyoku still don’t sound the way you want them to, try solving it with volume.