The satsuma-biwa, a type of lute, has its own traditions and repertoire.

The energetic and percussive style featured in the music composed for this instrument appeared in 16th-century South Kyusu, whose then-ruler wrote its first lyrics.

Tsuruta, one of the major living interpreters of satsuma-biwa, sings three contrasting songs here.

The music is exemplary; the notes are brief but adequate.

(60:20).