Jiutai 地謡 refers to the chorus section of a noh performance. The chorus singing in a performance is composed exclusively of shite actors from the same school as the shite. Its number and position varies according to the performance format.
- Full noh performance: eight chanters, sitting at the jiutai-za, facing the waki-shōmen.
- Maibayashi: four chanters, sitting between fue-za mae and jiutai-za, facing the metsuke-bashira.
- Shimai: four chanters, sitting at the ato-za, facing the front of the stage.
The position of the chanters within the jiutai reflects their rank: the two central positions (left or right, depending on the stylistic school) are taken by the jigashira, or chorus leader, and by the fuku-jigashira, or sub-chorus leader. When two rows of chanters are present, the higher ranking sit in the back row.The chorus leader has the responsibility of setting the pitch, to which all chanters conform, and of signaling changes in rhythm and intensity through his chant and breath. In absence of a conductor facing the chorus, the jigashira is responsible for understanding the intent of the shite’s chant and for coordinating rhythms with the hayashi, In turn, the other chorus chanters, singing in unison with him, rely on the jigashira and follow his lead. Though each chanter may have a different voice and chant style, even if belonging to the same school, individual chorus members try to adjust their voices to the chant of the jigashira. As with all other members of the cast, chorus chanters carry a fan, which they place in front of their knees when resting, and pick up while singing. The fan is held in different ways depending on the performance format, and on the shite school.
Contributor:
Diego Pellecchia