Synopsis

This is an animation that visualizes the Hokkaido folk song “Esashi Oiwake.” This folk song does not have a concept of rhythm and relies on various kobushi (fluctuations in the pitch of the voice) called “noshi” and “momi,” among others, to sing with extended breaths. Although there are unique scores for learning, they do not accurately represent volume, pitch, and duration like Western sheet music. In this animation, we aimed to faithfully visualize the kobushi of the singer, creating a video that allows viewers to sing along while watching. Additionally, we represented the frequency of the shakuhachi, which accompanies the song, with waves, and depicted the lyrics that sing about the lonely sentiment of sailing across the Sea of Japan towards Esashi.

PROFILE

ONISHI Keita

A video artist based in Tokyo and Kanagawa, Japan. Onishi produces video installation works and music videos using animation methods to express the structure of music and the texture of sound. He is also involved in advertising, such as commercials, concept movies and motion CIs.

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