noun
utai piece for recitation (noh chant)
In noh, a type of chant piece (utai) that is recited rather than sung with a strong melodic line. Specialized term.
能楽では、歌物は謡の一種で、語りを重視する。
In noh, utamono is a type of utai chant that emphasizes recitation.
noun
vocal-focused accompanied singing
In traditional Japanese music, a piece or style where the vocal part is emphasized over the instrumental accompaniment. Contrasts with 語り物 (katarimono, narrative recitation).
歌物は、三味線の伴奏よりも歌が前面に出る。
In utamono, the singing comes to the fore more than the shamisen accompaniment.
Compound of 歌 (uta, 'song') + 物 (mono, 'thing'). The term is used in traditional Japanese music contexts.