Taiko thrilling combination of sound and movement

Jessie Gibbs and some of her Narukami group drummers put on a taiko drumming performance — a show which is both theatrical and powerful. Picture by Mark Thompson

Gisborne people will soon have the chance to learn the drums, Japanese style, with Jessie Gibbs from Wellington’s Narukami Taiko.

Throughout history taiko drums have been used in communication, military action, theatrical accompaniment, religious ceremony and concert performance. Taiko drumming is also an excellent cardio workout, building endurance and employing most joints.

Gibbs is the leader and principal tutor of Narukami Taiko and coordinates public open days, workshops and public performance for her 60-member strong group.

People who attended Japan Day last October would have seen Jessie and Narukami Taiko performing. The workshops will be more in depth where people can experience the taiko as a player rather than just a spectator.

Gibbs said she was excited to be coming to Gisborne again this year to share the awesome art form of taiko with people.

The story of Taiko is interwoven in the fabric of Japanese history. Regarded as sacred since ancient times, the drum was first used to drive away evil spirits and pests harmful to crops. It was believed that by imitating the sound of thunder, the spirit of rain would be forced into action.

Gisborne District Sister Cities with local funding support and the assistance of Gisborne’s Sister Port, Gamagori in Japan, acquired a quality set of taiko some years ago but these have been in storage. When Gibbs was in Gisborne last October she did a full inspection of the drums and said they were of good quality and she would be happy to assist in re-establishing a taiko group here.

Taiko is a great way to connect with Japanese culture and society while meeting other people who shared an interest in music and cultural experiences.

Playing the taiko is as much about the beauty of the movement as it is about the sound made and developing the strength, endurance and flexibility to play well.

“Taiko drumming is a full body workout as you use your shoulders, core, legs, glutes and especially the back muscles,” she said.

Vice president of Gisborne District Sister Cities Judy Livingston said Gisborne’s group was gifted the name of Kai Kyo Taiko by Mr Kono from Gamagori.

The name means sound of the ocean (between Gisborne and Gamagori) and also a “bridge” between Gisborne and Gamagori cities.  There are limited places in the workshops so people should register to receive more information at kaikyotaikonz@gmail.com.

■ Taiko drumming workshops, Saturday February 24