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Sunday,
September 7, 2008 from 11:00 a.m.
Bellevue Community College Main Campus
GYM (G Bldg) [campus
map] Stage
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(Photos taken in 2007 Aki Matsuri)
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Taiko is an art form expressed by basic drum rhythm and movement.
The power of the drum has continually served as a means of expression
and communication and is an integral part of Japanese history. Northwest
Taiko is a Japanese-American drum group striving to learn more about
their cultural heritage through this traditional art form.
The word taiko literally means 'big drum' and has been deeply imbedded
in the cultural history of Japan for hundreds of years. At first,
taiko was developed as a way to send messages and provide emphasis
during religious ceremonies. The drums were used to drive away evil
spirits, bring rain, or to offer thanks for bountiful crops. Taiko
has developed into much more, as the presentation of the drums and
the music itself became the focus.
Taiko has been recognized as a performing art for over twenty-five
years. During this period, the joy of this art has been shared and
experienced internationally. It has also become embraced by many of
Japanese descent living in countries around the world as an acknowledgement
of their heritage as well as an expression of their identity. As a
taiko group in the United States, the members of Northwest Taiko use
the power of the drum combined with movement for a dynamic form of
expression. Our songs are not only grounded in tradition, but also
reflect a blend of our American musical influences.
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Northwest
Taiko began performing in October of 1984 and is frequently sought
after to entertain at a variety of events throughout the Pacific Northwest
and Canada. Northwest Taiko routinely performs at Bumbershoot, Northwest
Folklife Festival, and Cherry Blossom Festival, in addition to various
other cultural and community presentations. Come see for yourself
and feel the rhythm of the drums!!
For booking information, contact Nancy Quan at (206) 527-2604.
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