kakko; Japanese hourglass drum
A small double-headed drum played with sticks on both sides, traditionally used in gagaku (court music). The term refers specifically to this instrument.
In gagaku, the kakko marks an important rhythm.
The kakko is a drum played with sticks on both sides.
Standard kanji spelling for the gagaku drum.
Alternate kanji spelling, also used in historical contexts.
The word 羯鼓 (kakko) is of Chinese origin, referring to a type of drum introduced to Japan along with gagaku. The kanji 羯 and 鼓 relate to a drum used in ancient Chinese and Central Asian music.