Koshin Taiko |
By Michiko M. Yamamoto
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With the explosion of sound reverberating against the walls of the gym and surging outside, an enthusiastic crowd was drawn into and immersed in a half-hour of thunderous, pulsating entertainment. Koshin Taiko again provided those attending this year’s VJCC Summer Festival with an awe-inspiring yet rollicking good time. From the overwhelming crowd response at Koshin Taiko’s performance, it is not surprising that taiko drumming is credited with the |
resurgence of interest in Japanese culture. Especially in Southern California, taiko groups are ubiquitous as they are based at community centers, churches and educational institutions.
Since 1992, Koshin Taiko -- the VJCC-based ensemble -- has trained young and old in the power, artistry and fun of taiko drumming. Currently, the group is composed of eighteen members, representing a wide age range and a diversity of experience with Japanese culture. What they share in common is their desire to become involved in an art form that triggers an innate and irresistible response to the “call of the drum.”
Koshin Taiko was created by and continues to be taught by Master Etsuo Hongo. As each of the three ensembles founded by Master Hongo is unique, Koshin Taiko’s trademark is its utilization of the rope-tied okedo drum. Over the years, the group has handcrafted sixteen such taiko, ranging from five small ones to the large oo-daiko. It certainly was an impressive sight at the Festival performance
when the curtains parted to reveal the tableau of the costumed ensemble posed with its red-based and white-roped taiko…the drama and expectation only heightened with the first synchronized strike of the taiko marking the beginning of a dynamic and memorable performance! Participation in Koshin Taiko not only entails learning the rhythm and moves associated with taiko drumming, but aspects of Japanese culture and etiquette as well. Discipline and endurance are also hallmarks of the training process. Anyone watching a taiko |
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performance can see that upper and lower body strength are necessary as are precision and an attuned, cooperative spirit among the group members. Learning the intricacies of actually striking the taiko is mixed with the dance-like movements that make taiko drumming such an amazing auditory and visual experience. And with the sweat equity in becoming proficient at taiko drumming, there is a well-earned sense of satisfaction in contributing to the growth of this cultural phenomenon.
Koshin Taiko has practice sessions twice a week at the VJCC. On Tuesdays (from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.), the group utilizes classroom 3, learning and enhancing techniques on automobile tires (which is a common way to train). On Sundays (from 10:00 –11:30 a.m./noon), the group trains on the taiko as practice takes place in the gym.
Every member of the group is given an opportunity to perform. During the year, newer members perform at three events: the VJCC’s Shinnen Enkai (New Year’s Celebration Party) and Summer Festival, and the L.A. Marathon. As members become more experienced, they can join in the performances at the myriad events to which Koshin Taiko is invited. To date, the ensemble has performed at a host of events throughout California as well as out-of-state.
If you are interested in joining Koshin Taiko, you are welcome to contact Lori Miyakawa at www.koshintaiko.org.
Visions for the VJCC
By Steven Sharp
Carey Tokirio with his daughter Toni |
On Sunday afternoon of the recent VJCC Festival, Carey Tokirio agreed to share some of his thoughts about the Center. Like many at the Center, he grew up in the area and, except for a brief period, stayed in the area. Carey and his wife, Vicki, are the parents of Erica, a member of the VJCC hula group, Halau Hula ‘O Napualani, and Toni, a member of the VYC Sure Shot Comets basketball team. For Carey, one of the benefits of being a VJCC member is the sense of community gained from giving back to the youth programs after being on the receiving end while growing up. As for how to encourage our youth to stay involved at the Center past the basketball playing and scouting years, he says by simply “asking for one’s help” is a good “first step.” There is |
untapped potential in our youth, who when given the opportunity to help, will result in tremendous benefits back to the Center and its participants. Carey also added that by having a mentoring program to tap elder generations for guidance in education, career and more could also strengthen young adult ties to the VJCC.
