Taiko Drums Festival & Bonsai Exhibit

Prior to coming to Japan, a close friend, Michelle Kittel (an ex-expat), recommended that I attend a taiko (tye-koh) drum presentation. On Sunday, May 27, the opportunity turned up. We were invited by Rodney's Japanese tutor, Keiko- sensei to attend a theatre performance in Higashimurayama.

Throughout the many festivals we've attended over the last year, taiko drums have often been played, thus the sound was familiar to us.

For hundreds of years, the Japanese have used the drum for many reasons such as to determine village boundaries. The taiko drum was also used during battle as military music. Sure enough, this was demonstrated in the movie, "The Last Samurai", with Tom Cruise. Taiko drums were evident during the final battle scenes. Beating sounds were said to give courage to the samurai warriors, as well as intimidate the enemy.



As mentioned, taiko is also a key element in Japanese festivals or matsuri. At some festivals, the drum is played to ward off evil spirits and sicknesses, or give thanks for prosperity. In addition, the drum is believed to have a spirit of its own, called kami.

Keiko-sensei is the head of the talented taiko drum performers. Her family, which includes her husband and two daughters, also participated in the festival.

Being inside the theatre offered a different perspective of the drums. Taiko drums produce loud and thunderous sounds, even more so within the enclosed space. I could feel the thud reverberating within my own body. At most, I've heard taiko drums played outdoors. The performances were dramatic and complex. I was amazed by the synchronicity among the group members. Each segment seemed to tell a different story by the rhythmic beats. We were highly entertained, including Markus. He applauded with the audience after each performance.

Keiko-sensei's lovely family, with Markus and I

At the same hall, there was also a bonsai tree exhibit and Japanese calligraphy art, on display.

Bonsai is the art of miniaturizing trees or plants and developing them into an aesthetically appealing shape by growing, pruning and training them in containers. It was very interesting to see many different types of bonsai. The ones with flowers were gorgeous and flawless. I've never seen anything like it back home.

Here are video clips of two taiko drum performances. Enjoy! (Note: It may take a minute to upload)

In the clip below, Keiko-sensei is the drummer on the right. Her petiteness is deceptive. She showcased incredible power and stamina as she beat away on the taiko! Gee, this would be a great workout and stress reliever!