What is Taiko?

The word "Taiko" literally means "Big Drum" or "Broad Drum". Taiko is a traditional form of Japanese drumming that incorporates those elements of martial art which focuses on centering oneself in the grounded position, and the concentration, direction and controlling of energy and breathing. Unlike most drumming styles which involve rhythm and speed, Taiko drumming also involves the tremendous release of controlled power in which the drummer is centered, grounded and hitting the drum with precise form and fluidity.

Since ancient times, Taiko has been associated with many aspects of Japanese culture. Taiko has been used for religious and war ceremonies, Noh and Kabuki accompaniments, farming, fishing, festivals and for signaling time. There was a time when people believed that their ancestors lived in Taiko drums and treated them as sacred objects. To Japanese, Taiko is a sacred object; it is a unity of the spirits of man and nature.

Taiko is a powerful cultural asset in Japan. However, Taiko is universal because the sound touches deep emotional chords within our unconscious.


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