[1] The more correct term would be kumoijoshi, as given by William P. Malm for one of the three tuning scales of the koto[1] adapted from shamisen music.
[2] Evidence of music in Japan before the 6th century is present, but very limited knowledge surrounding its theory exists.
[4] A consistent form of Japanese music did not appear to occur until the Nara period.
[4] During this period, gagaku court music was introduced from China and then modified to fit Japanese styles and taste.
[3] The standard theory imported from China consisted of an octave scale with 12 pitches derived from the circle of fifths.