About Us

Shinsho-Mugen Daiko was founded in 1999 by Ikuyo Conant. Shinsho means "Celestial Bodies" and Mugen means "Source of Dreams". With this name we are striving to unify one's individual experience with a wider collective understanding of self as part of the community at large. The group focuses on development of fine art in Taiko drumming, and offers classes and workshops in Santa Cruz and Monterey counties.

A Taiko drum is a simple instrument to create a simple yet fundamental sound. We Taiko drummers enjoy this activity of utter simplicity. After prolonged drumming, the Taiko drummer is spent like a marathon runner crossing the finish line. Taiko is powerful, yet for those whose hearts are aching for depth in their lives, the sound of Taiko is soothing and invigorating. This simple action of creating a convincing sound is extremely diffuicult, yet tremendously rewarding.

In times past, people lived in a world close to the spirits of nature and they were in awe of these powerful forces. Their symbol-based beliefs were naive but courageous. They were bound to the basic elements of nature, and in this way, their lives were in sync with the universal rhythms of nature.


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