Gagaku is classical Japanese court music. Gagaku was brought to Japan from China in the 8th century. The meaning of Gagaku is literally 'elegant music'. Most of the music that survives is classified as "Togaku" (music from the Tang Dynasty). They are performed as dance pieces and concert pieces. In modern Japan, "Gagaku" is performed at ceremonies like that of New Year or a wedding held at a Shinto shrine. 