On January 6, 2025, Fuji TV's morning show 'ぽかぽか' kicked off the New Year with its first broadcast of the year, showcasing the live performances of renowned musicians from one of Japan's most prestigious traditional music families. The episode featured Gagaku musician Hidetaka Togii, 65, and his son, 18-year-old Noriaki Togii, captivating the audience with their remarkable rendition of traditional pieces.
Musician Hidetaka, who began his career with the Imperial Household Agency as a musician at the age of 19, has since taken his craft beyond traditional boundaries. Today, he embraces various artistic endeavors, including comedy, leading to diverse performances on platforms such as YouTube. Known for his dynamic approach to Gagaku, Hidetaka introduced his son Noriaki to the world of live performance, hoping to inspire a new generation to appreciate traditional music.
During their live appearance, Hidetaka played the hichiriki, and Noriaki enriched the performance by playing the sho. Their father-son collaboration not only entertained but also brought forth moments of laughter. Hidetaka amused the audience with his lighthearted remarks about the common perceptions of Gagaku musicians. 'When people hear Gagaku musicians, they often think we are very serious, don’t joke, or are too strict. But that's quite the opposite,' he remarked, filling the studio with mirth.
The show's hosts, the comedy duo Haraiti, underscored this sentiment, with host Yusuke Sawabe humorously sharing, 'I’ve met him before, and it’s nothing like you’d expect. He’s all about the jokes and humor!' Their playful banter set the tone for the rest of the broadcast, emphasizing the fun side of traditional music.
When questions arose about Noriaki's choice of attire—specifically, his stylish leather jacket—Hidetaka revealed the inspiration behind it. 'I admire the musician Hideki Saijo,' Noriaki expressed, 'but it’s actually the 1970s style I’m drawn to.' This insight provided viewers with relatable connections to contemporary fashion influences within the framework of traditional music.
The broadcast was not just about musical performances; it was about bridging past and present, showcasing how traditional art forms can adapt and resonate within contemporary pop culture. Hidetaka's words hinted at how traditional music, when combined with modern elements, could capture diverse audiences, drawing family connections across different generations.
The broadcaster's decision to feature the Togii family, with such longstanding roots—over 1300 years—in Gagaku, highlights the continual relevance of these ancient arts. Their live segment served not only as entertainment but also as cultural preservation, embodying the spirit of learning and appreciation for Japan's rich musical heritage.
Throughout the show, there were efforts to make these ancient art forms more accessible. By blending humor and relatability with performances, the Togii family illustrated the idea of breaking down barriers surrounding traditional music's perceived exclusivity. Noriaki's debut as a young artist showcased the importance of youth engagement with traditional arts, ensuring their survival and relevance.
Through moments of laughter and poignant performances, the first broadcast of 'ぽかぽか' was not just marking the beginning of the New Year; it encapsulated the essence of cultural renewal. 'I want to share Gagaku with everyone, showing it through humor and fun to attract people of all ages,' Hidetaka shared his ambition preceding their performance. By emphasizing joy and connection, they aim to inspire viewers to embrace cultural art forms anew, transforming how traditional music is perceived and enjoyed.
Overall, the diversity of their show not only highlighted the rich history of Gagaku but also reinforced the importance of maintaining cultural heritage for future generations. The Togii family's presence during the New Year broadcast depicted both tradition and the hopeful evolution of how these families are connecting with modern audiences.