Taiko Incursion

On Monday the 27th of May, Year 8 watched a spectacle of Japanese culture and tradition, an awe-inspiring performance of traditional Japanese drumming, Taiko. Aiko and Graham Hilgendorf introduced what Taiko is and also performed it. Taiko are the traditional Japanese Drums and also the art of Japanese Drumming. They then showed us the various Japanese drums, the Chu Daiko, a “medium sized” Taiko (it was massive!); Hirado Daiko, a flat and more compact Taiko which is placed on a stand; and Katsugi Okedo, a Taiko which is slung over the shoulder using a strap. 

Using these three different drums, they started a polyrhythmic beat, it started off slow and calm, then it built up in intensity, it got to a point where the ground below us seemed to come alive and start dancing at the magnitude of the beat. Once it finished, they then asked for volunteers to come, join and play along with them. In hindsight, I regret not being among them. Once they gathered the volunteers, Graham taught them and us how to properly hit and play the Taiko, once everybody got the hang of it, Aiko started playing a beat on the Katsugi Okedo and the volunteers joined in, creating an invigorating tempo which tickled the innermost being within me. Graham and Aiko then went on to do a performance, Aiko’s pulsing drumbeats combined with Graham's soft melody created a beautiful symphony which despite the contrast of the instruments was quite soothing, like a lullaby song by a mother. The pair then went on to do another piece, full of bright sounds and a fast tempo. When the performance concluded, which it inevitably did, a roaring applause ensued. 

This was an experience which I will never forget, even if the hairs on my chin grow white and long and the hairs on my head start to fall out.

Dawson J Year 8

The Taiko performance was a great opportunity for us year 8’s to have a look into Japanese culture. We learnt a lot of new Japanese words such as Taiko (drums), Bachi (drumsticks), Matsuri (Festival) and Sugoi (great!) as well as the names of all the different types of drums. The performance itself showed us the various emotions and stories the Taiko drums can portray. We saw and heard multiple pieces, some loud and exciting while others were slower and calmer. After the performances some of us got the chance to have a turn at playing the drums ourselves. I was one of those lucky people. We learnt about the movement and body position required to play each different Taiko. The incursion was a fun experience and it was great to learn more about Japanese culture in an enjoyable and engaging way. 

Lauren R Year 8