Japanese Taiko Drumming

I hope most of you had a wonderful Memorial Day Weekend. At least for me, it started with a bang on Saturday as the Miami Lakes Branch Library celebrated Memorial Day weekend with performer Tampa Taiko Group. 63 people visited this sought after event that took place at the library’s auditorium. Ron the Taiko drummer not only played the drums but also a Shakuhashi flute. Those present were introduced to history about Taiko drums and were also given the opportunity to participate and play the drums.

If you have never seen the Taiko drumming group performs then you missed out on a fun family event.  The Taiko drumming is a musical art form that involves music and well organized choreographed movement. The

sounds are loud, rapid and hard which many performers identify as being part of the Japanese martial arts it involves a unique rhythm were the performers are not trying to only use the drums as an instrument but they are also trying to connect their mind and spirits with the drums.  It is an ancient form of percussion using large drums. The drums can range from size from quite small to as large as a vehicle. The most common drum size is called the “chu-daiko” which is the size of the wine barrel drum.

Taiko drumming is a sound that vibrates through your body and soul. No two sounds are alike nor can it be described or compared to other drumming sounds.  Taiko drumming is native to Japan and has been around for over 1400 years. I have had the pleasure to enjoy watching and listening to Taiko performers in the past and it has been an experience that I have enjoyed watching many times over.  Taiko means “fat drums”. “Taiko” has generally often been used to refer to modern art of Japanese drum (Kumi-daiko) but the word actually refers to the drums itself.  

If you have not had the opportunity to see such a performance I then recommend that you watch Japanese theme movies such as Rising Sun or The Hunted. 

From your Traveling Librarian, always a librarian!
“Life is made up of small wonders and big Ahhs! For every experience there is always something to learn and for others to treasure”!