The fall months are ideal for hearing the best of hogaku. This is partly owing to the natural increase in musical activity after the slow, sultry summer months, but also because of an annual arts contest, sponsored by the Agency for Cultural Affairs, from Oct. 12 to Nov. 10. Winning this contest can ensure a successful career for hogaku performers.

Tohru Fukuhara

Tohru Fukuhara began studies of the shinobue (Japanese transverse bamboo flute) under the tutelage of Sanzaemon Takara, a designated living national treasure. Fukuhara graduated from the Tokyo University of Fine Arts in 1984 and embarked on a professional career. As one of the leading shinobue players in Japan, he is representative of a generation of younger hogaku musicians who, after having mastered the traditions, successfully explore new musical arenas.

His upcoming recital will premiere three new compositions, including a new piece featuring a classic ensemble of shinobue flute, kotsuzumi and taiko drums. This occasion marks both Fukuhara's first major recital as well as his first entry into the Autumn Arts Contest.

"Tohru no Fue," Oct. 26, 7 p.m., at Tsuda Hall, in front of Sendagaya Station on the Sobu Line. Tickets 5,000 yen, all seating nonreserved. Tickets available at PIA, (03) 5237-9966, or the Ensokai Office, (03) 3536-1361.

Yamada-style koto master Shoin Yamase is a recently designated living national treasure. With her decades-long mastery of singing, koto and shamisen, she was a natural choice. Her songs, filled with warmth and pathos, are matched and augmented by a highly skilled instrumental technique. An upcoming recital, her first under her new title, will include another musician so honored, shakuhachi master Reibo Aoki.

"Yamase Shoin Ensokai," Nov. 8, 6:30 p.m., at the National Theater's Small Hall near the Hanzomon subway station. Tickets 4,000 yen; all seating nonreserved. For more information and tickets, call Shoin-kai at (03) 3268-7713.

Satsuma biwa specialist Kakujo Nakagawa will present her third recital, featuring both traditional and contemporary biwa pieces. The recital will focus on the works of her teacher, the legendary biwa great Kinshi Tsuruta, to commemorate the seventh anniversary of her death. She will also premiere a new work by Sohmei Sato, "Rin'ne," as well as the classic "Dan no Ura" from the "Tale of the Heike." There will be English notes available.

"Kakujo Nakagawa Dai San Biwa Recital," Nov. 10, 5 p.m., at Tokyo FM Hall, a three-minute walk from Exit No. 2 or 3 of the Hanzomon subway station. Tickets 3,000 yen in advance, 3,500 yen at the door; all seating nonreserved. For more information or reservations, call Kakujo no Kai at (03) 3707-3664.

Shinnai musician Wakasanojo Tsuruga will also present a recital to commemorate his recent designation to living national treasure status. Originally known as Bungo-bushi and banned by the Edo authorities for its racy lyrics, the genre was reborn around 1777 as shinnai. Founder Tsuruga Wakasanojo left a number of songs that are still performed today.

The present Tsuruga is the 11th in the lineage. His recital will consist of the Edo Period tale "Kinugawa Monogatari," about murder, revenge, love and tragedy among the women of the Yoshiwara entertainment district. English notes will be available in the program.