San Jose Taiko by Jasmine

Before seeing San Jose Taiko perform, I knew very little about Japanese culture. Through their precise, powerful movements, I learned the discipline and passion the Japanese hold for their music. An amazing, invigorating, and inspiring show, the uplifting music of San Jose Taiko demonstrated not only the energetic Japanese spirit but also the ever-changing blending of cultures as each generation intermingles and grows.

In each of the performances the drums were used to beautifully tell a story or interact in a conversation. Using a question-answer form, all of the musicians, whether they were in pairs, groups, or alone, all responded with their parts to the whole and thus created magnificent harmonies. Although the drumming in itself was wonderful, that was all I had initially expected to hear. However, not only did I hear instruments other than the drums, I also received an incredible visual show. The amazing amount of precision and teamwork struck me. Every movement the performers made was perfectly placed, every leap was done on an exact beat, every extension of the arm and bend of the leg was made at precise angle. The amount of order and perfection these performers had truly inspired me and showed the enormous amount of hard work they had put into the performance. Furthermore, this display expressed the discipline and emphasis on self-control in Japanese culture as the entire group moved as one.

Equally interesting as the show was the chance to meet with the performers afterwards. Through listening to their explanations of the history, technique, and art of Taiko, I learned a great deal about both culture and art. For instance, I was surprised to find that, as second-generation Japanese, they had incorporated into their music the influences of rock n roll, jazz, and swing. Their explanations for things such as their costumes and drums also were very interesting. However, what I found most interesting was their descriptions of the technique needed in Taiko. The enormous amount of time they spent preparing was evident as they told us of how, as performers, they had to hit the drum with exactly the right strength so as to avoid moving the drum. They also learned their music by making it into a song, and even had different sounds for different beats! Through their effervescent characters and descriptions of their favorite pieces, their willpower, passion, and love for their music were movingly portrayed.

The amazing show of San Jose Taiko left me with a rich, vivid view of the Japanese culture. In every aspect of the performance the ethnic pride, jovial characters, and professional precision of the performers struck me. Representing the vitality and energy of the Japanese, San Jose Taiko has enriched my knowledge of both one culture and its blend with the culture of America.