Constructing Locality through Music Practice: “Doing Folklore” in Kawamata

Abstract

The globalization of music in recent years has led to both de-regionalization and re-regionalization of local music. During re-regionalization, the localized identity in musical practice is emphasized, and distinction from others is actively sought. However, it is necessary first to examine the relationship between music and locality, and the type of relationship that has been formed between music and region. This paper clarifies the process of acceptance of foreign music and the construction of locality in the town of Kawamata, Fukushima prefecture, by examining the relationship between music and region. A folkloric event has been held since 1975 in Kawamata and is now one of the largest musical events in Japan. In the beginning, the only performers were folk music practitioners, but with the participation of the younger generation and external evaluations, the residents have also transformed into active practitioners of folklore. Through this process, the event organizers and residents have established a connection between folklore and Kawamata, and a substantive epistemological locality for music has been constructed. In addition, the indirect practice of the residents’ initiative promotes the recognition of the usefulness of music in giving back to the community. These results indicate that in the relationship between music and the region, the construction of locality by practitioners, including residents, and returning to the region through various forms of practice are important elements.