{{short description|80-stringed variant of the Japanese koto zither}} {{More citations needed|date=March 2023}} {{italic title|string=koto}} The '''80-string {{transliteration|ja|koto}}''', known as the {{nihongo||八十絃/はちじゅうげん|hachijugen}} in Japanese, was an invention of Japanese composer Michio Miyagi created in 1923. Miyagi added 67 strings to the traditional 13-string {{transliteration|ja|koto}} design, creating an instrument much like a western harp. Together, the 80 strings provide a far larger pitch range than the standard {{transliteration|ja|koto}}. It is widely seen as a short-lived experimental instrument. <ref>{{cite journal|last=Jinko|first=Katsamura|title=Some Innovations in Musical Instruments in Japan during the 1920s|journal=Yearbook for Traditional Music|year=1986|volume=18|pages=157–172|publisher=International Council For Traditional Music|type=Print}}</ref>
==Construction== thumb|left|{{transliteration|ja|Jii}} (bridges)
The 80-string {{transliteration|ja|koto}} was largely hand-constructed, as only limited machinery existed to manufacture it. It was built along similar lines to the common {{transliteration|ja|koto}}, but with reinforced design elements; for instance, the platform where strings are tied runs the entire length and breadth of the instrument to accommodate the increased strain.
As with other {{transliteration|ja|koto}}, the Paulownia wood used for the instruments' body (''Paulownia tomentosa'', known as {{transliteration|ja|kiri}} in Japanese) is molded and treated.{{how|date=March 2021}} The bridges of the {{transliteration|ja|koto}}, known as {{transliteration|ja|jii}}, are often made of plastic in the modern day, and can be found in both small and large sizes. These bridges are rearranged as needed during playing, and are arranged according to the particular tuning used. Strings are traditionally made from silk threads, although plastic nylon strings are often used as a cheaper alternative.
===Usage=== The 80-string {{transliteration|ja|koto}} is not widely used. There are few extant examples of the instrument today, as it never achieved the popularity of the 17-string koto, Miyagi's more widely accepted invention.
==References== {{reflist}}
Category:Tube zithers Category:Japanese musical instruments Category:Koto players