Episode 26 – Taiko

Taiko drum performance; Parliament Hill, Ottawa, Ontario; 1988. NNM 2010.32.39

SJCTM - 26 - Taiko

In this episode, Raymond and Carolyn explore the fascinating history of Japanese taiko drumming, from its ancient roots in folk culture to the emergence of taiko ensembles in both Japan and North America after the Second World War. Taiko ensembles first began in North America in the 1970s, and were closely tied to Asian American and Asian Canadian political activism.

Further reading:

Katari Taiko: History.

Greenaway, John Endo. "The Roots of Canadian Taiko: in the Heart of the City". The Bulletin.

Midnight Taiko Kai. "About Taiko Drumming."

San Francisco Taiko Dojo: Grandmaster Seiichi Tanaka.

San Jose Taiko: History.

Taiko.com. "Overview and history".

Vancouver Taiko Society.