Abstract

This research clarifies characteristics of career development in the Japanese traditional culture of Noh. Noh was built on the achievements of Kanami and Zeami in the 14th century. Nohgakushi, professional players of Noh, are participants in Japanese traditional masked dance-drama. Their skills and techniques are usually passed down orally from master to student in an apprentice system having traditional relationships.

Their career path is clearly defined. Personnel training is by a system based on career development. They have to play special compositions at turning points in their career. Then they work in cooperation with other Nohgakushi to obtain opportunities to play those compositions. As a result, their skills and technique level become clear in their community.