Goshu Ondo - Form

Form

Goshu ondo is a lot like Kawachi Ondo in that the structure of the tune is quite fluid. There are no set lyrics, the themes used in the song vary from region to region, and the song's structure is variable. There is only a set theme which performers can improvise on, and a returning chorus which is sung back by singers, and/or the audience.

The returning chorus is sung in pitched notes, but the singers consider this a kakegoe. Said to have evolved from a religious song game, the song incorporates a lot of call-and-response, where listeners who know the song are encouraged to participate shouting back kakegoe.

The tune of Goshu Ondo can be used to tell stories, or talk about current events. There is even a version of Goshu Ondo that names all the prefectures and capitals in Japan. The staple instruments are always a taiko drum and a stringed instrument, be it an electric guitar or a shamisen, though the song can be sung with just the drum alone.