Akashi Kengyo

Background

Akashi Kengyo was born in 1299.

Career

Akashi Kengyo was a student of Jōichi, the most famous Heike reciter in Kyoto, but soon surpassed his master and 1363 had the attained the highest rank within the guild.

Noted as a master reciter of Heike Monogatari or the romance of the downfall of the Taira Family, to the accompaniment of the Biwa, or Japanese lute. He was a blind man as such musicians usually were. His art won such admiration of Emperors Kogon and Suko that he was made Chief Kengyo, the highest rank accorded to a blind musician. His masterpiece, “Ryo-shuku Chou” (Listening to the Rain At An Inn), so impressed Emperor Gokomatsu that the ruler gave him the pseudonym of Yau (Night Rain) and a purple robe, which symbolizes the highest rank of the Buddhist priesthood. He was the first blind person to be so honored.

Achievements

• He was made Chief Kengyo, the highest rank accorded to a blind musician. On his death, he was posthumous awarded the rank of Grand Master.

Works

• masterpiece

  • Ryo-shuku Chou (Listening to the Rain At An Inn)