Taiko Drumming

The best way to describe this might be: “a cross between martial arts and banging on really BIG drums.”

But as I’ve studied and practiced, it’s become so much more.

Taiko is a Japanese-based art that is as much form and coordinated movement as actual drumming (which is why it appeals to me). It’s very physical and high energy. I get a good workout when I play, but I am also part of a team effort.

Taiko Drumming has taken many forms, from traditional Japanese taiko to more “Westernized” taiko, which is often fused with other musical instruments and even dance choreography and martial arts movements. Here are a few hand-picked videos of some personal favorites.

My all-time favorite taiko group, Tao Drum:

 Kyodo Taiko performing their signature finale (this is a US group out of FL):

A song called “Just Do It” by Yamato Taiko:

Not the best quality video, but excellent light and screen use (Yamato Taiko):

Wadaiko Tokara. Just saw them perform – awesome! Also just released their first CD:

And last but not least, my own taiko group playing “Omiyage”: