Interviews
Taiko's sounds as Japanese cultural tradition (Japanese)
(Japanese) I am not too sure that the taiko we play is traditional (authentic). Perhaps, it is not really traditional, you know. This started about 50 years ago as a form of Kumi-daiko and there were all kinds of explanations attached to the playing. Some would say it started 300 years ago and others would day 500 years ago. Even so, I don’t think any group has really preserved the traditional sound. And, you know, it is only in the last 50 years that taiko playing has become popular. What do they mean when they say keeping the tradition? Is it the sound, or what? I suppose it’s the sound. Taiko can bring out lots of emotion and empathy to those who are listening. I guess that’s all that counts, you know.
Date: April 1, 2005
Location: California, US
Interviewer: Ann Kaneko
Contributed by: Watase Media Arts Center, Japanese American National Museum.
Explore More Videos
Traditional taiko style
(b.1943) Shin-issei grand master of taiko; founded San Francisco Taiko Dojo in 1968.
Dedicated to the frontier spirits
(b.1943) Shin-issei grand master of taiko; founded San Francisco Taiko Dojo in 1968.
American influences on Japanese taiko
Senshin Buddhist Temple minister and co-founder of Kinnara Taiko.
Taiko is a reflection of where you live
Senshin Buddhist Temple minister and co-founder of Kinnara Taiko.
Playing traditional gagaku while creating an identity
Senshin Buddhist Temple minister and co-founder of Kinnara Taiko.
Taiko as self-expression
Co-founder and creative director of San Jose Taiko
A “principally-based” taiko group in England creating a global taiko community
Co-founder and creative director of San Jose Taiko
Defining a Taiko player
(b.1951) Co-founder and managing director of San Jose Taiko.
Decision between becoming a minister or musician
(b. 1949) Musician and arts educator and adminstrator.
Japanese American taiko is not Japanese taiko
(b. 1949) Musician and arts educator and adminstrator.
Parents didn't accept me playing taiko in the beginning
(b. 1949) Musician and arts educator and adminstrator.
Tango makes him to stay in Argentina (Spanish)
(1925-2014) La Plata Hochi, Journalist