Japan, Art, and Music – Experience Gagaku

Gagaku is Japan's oldest surviving musical tradition—imperial sounds that have been heard at court ceremonies for over 1,200 years. This “music of the gods” unfolds its effect in slow, floating movements and mysterious sounds—because “gagaku” refers to music, dance, and Shinto ritual all at once. Designated a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, there are now only a few musicians who have mastered this art. Situated between ritual and myth, gagaku opens up a sound space that transcends time and words – strange, fascinating, and moving at the same time.

In this workshop, the gagaku musicians of the Shirabe Festival, who are familiar with the stories, myths, and legends of Japan’s oldest musical genre and the culture associated with it at court, will bring these impressive instruments to life. They will tell stories about music, ritual, and mysticism in Japan and invite participants to join in. As a highlight, you can also try on one of the valuable costumes.

After the workshop, curator Bettina Zorn will show you the Noh drums, Gigaku masks, and tea sets from the East Asian collection of the Weltmuseum Wien.

Note: This evening is offered as part of the Shirabe Festival, June 8–14, 2026, in Vienna.
Visit the main concert of the Shirabe Festival, ama no gawa – Music from Another World, on June 12. This is a unique opportunity to experience the entire Gagaku Ensemble on a Viennese stage!

Workshop in German language
All guests require a valid museum ticket to participate in the event.
Participation is free for Annual Ticket holders, Weltmuseum Wien Friends, Patrons, Members, and Ambassadors as well as ICOM members and holders of the Kulturpass.
Registration: friends@weltmuseumwien.at
Meeting point: WMW Forum