If you love the sound of powerful drums, the College of The Albemarle’s Performing Arts Center is the place to be on Saturday, February 22.
The PAC will host a performance by Taikoza, a dynamic taiko drum group led by director Marco Lienhard. The performance, beginning at 7 p.m., will feature traditional Japanese drumming and the melodic sounds of bamboo flutes.
The word taiko roughly translates to “big drums,” and that’s exactly what Taikoza delivers. According to the group’s website, their shows are filled with “big drums, powerful rhythms, and electrifying, room-thumping energy.”
“This exciting group draws from Japan’s rich tradition of music and performance to create a visually stunning show,” the website continues. “With colorful traditional costumes and dynamic movement, Taikoza’s performances are immensely popular with audiences of all ages.”
In addition to a variety of drums, Taikoza incorporates the shakuhachi and the fue, both bamboo flutes, along with vibrant dances into their performances.
Taikoza was founded in New York City by members of Ondekoza, the group that sparked the taiko renaissance in Japan during the 1960s. Since its formation, the group has toured internationally, performing at prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall, Boston Symphony Hall, Suntory Hall, Moscow’s Tchaikovsky Hall, Osaka Festival Hall in Japan, Lincoln Center, and the Miyajima Temple and Peace Memorial Hall in Hiroshima.
The group has also appeared on ESPN, NBC, the History Channel, and other television networks. Taikoza’s music can be heard in Nintendo’s Wii games Red Steel 1 and 2, and the group has performed at the SUMO tournament at Madison Square Garden.
“Taikoza has thrilled audiences worldwide,” said the PAC in its announcement. “The evening will be an electrifying celebration of sound, energy, and cultural connection. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of taiko drumming or a first-time listener, this is a performance you won’t want to miss.”
The performance at COA will run for 90 minutes, with an intermission.
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