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TaikoArts Midwest | Music
TaikoArts Midwest | Music
TaikoArts Midwest is a Minnesota based world class taiko ensemble who delivers loud, energetic performances that combine music, dance, culture, and pure athleticism. Taiko is the Japanese word for drum and refers to the modern style of playing these drums. Wadaiko (in Japan) and kumi daiko (in North America) is movement infused, heart-pounding, dynamic group drumming.
TaikoArts Midwest uses the art form of taiko to empower and strengthen their local community by enveloping the audience in the experience of power, rhythm and grace. Experiencing a taiko performance has been compared to “feeling the heartbeat of the world” and leaves many touched, moved and inspired as they feel the pounding of the large Japanese drums in their chests during a performance. The group regularly premieres new work adding their unique voice to the expanding canon and innovation of North American taiko. Through performances, studio classes and school residencies, TaikoArts Midwest has taught thousands of students of all ages and abilities.
Daiko, which refers to the form of ensemble taiko drumming more specifically called kumi-daiko (組太鼓 "set of drums").
TaikoArts Midwest was founded as Mu Daiko in 1997 by Rick Shiomi. New Artistic Director, Jennifer Weir took over in 2017, when TaikoArts Midwest took over the taiko program formerly supported by Theater Mu. TaikoArts Midwest is a 501©3 non-profit organization committed to connecting people through cultural understanding and creative expression by providing high quality taiko performances, supporting taiko artists, and strengthening and building community through taiko.
Learn more about TaikoArts Midwest and founder Jennifer Weir in her May 2021 Artist Spotlight Interview.
Sample Programs: Customizable To Site’s Needs
Performance
TaikoArts Midwest Performance
This program is a combination of performance, lecture and interactive activities. With an emphasis on individual empowerment and the community building benefits of taiko, the performance is easily adjusted to any age/ability level. Audience members will learn the history & cultural context of taiko drumming in Japan and the United States. They will also learn about taiko drums, how they are made, a general vocabulary for the artform, and kuchishoka - how we say & teach rhythms. Interactive activities, depending on size of audience, can also include Q&A, learning rhythms, trying the drums themselves, and more.
