The thundering of drumbeats was met with exuberant applause at Epcor Centre’s Jack Singer Concert Hall in Calgary last night. The performance Tao: The Martial Art of Drumming brought the house to their feet several times for standing ovations as the audience was swept away by the Japanese artists on the opening night of their North American tour.
Untraditional Taiko
Established almost two decades ago, the musically gifted super group is based out of Japan where they have created the permanent home ‘Grandioso’ in Aso-Kuju National Park. The members live, train and entertain guests at the residence/hotel/performance structure. Traditionally taiko drummers practiced their art alone but this group feels stronger for living in unique conditions where they grow together.
The home base has grown over the years to encompass a guesthouse, restaurant and multiple performance centers as well as being the gym, spa and practice space for the Tao members; the compound is a visible marker of enduring success. Visitors of ‘Grandioso’ have the opportunity to be a part of the serene park while being cared for by the artists themselves. Not only is the lifestyle of the group unique but also the music, which is a creative mélange of traditional Japanese, modern and international sounds.
Having established a base almost two decades ago and enjoyed incredible fame in Japan the group began touring internationally. Conquering Europe, New Zealand, Australia, the US and beyond the troupe is traveling ever further to bring a taste of Japan to the world. In each country they dazzle their audiences with an unparalleled theatrical experience for fans of all ages.
The Performance of a Lifetime
During the production hard-core taiko drumming, inspired by nature and influenced by world music, is merged with other traditional Japanese instruments, martial arts and colourful costumes. The musicians play with intense passion, gleaming with sweat bringing the energy of the space to a peak. The fact that the artists are obviously enjoying themselves as they perform makes the show that much more exciting.
The group of well-muscled men and women are as much instruments themselves as are the various drums, flutes, cymbals, horns and string instruments that they employ in each thrilling performance. Filled with the energy of the moment the group members shout out as they play in perfect synchronization. Their arms fly with incredible speed creating pulsating, rhythmic music that gets the audience clapping along and cheering.
Tao: The Martial Art of Drumming is an interactive and mind expanding experience that continues to have international audiences dancing in their seats.
Natalie Bauer - Natalie Bauer is a Writer, Photographer, Traveler and Entrepreneur based in Calgary Canada. Published at age 14 she has been writing ...
