A special performance by the Matsuriza Taiko Drum Ensemble will be held at 6 p.m. tonight at the Sandra G. Powell Recital Hall in the Natalie L. Haslam Music Center.
Traditional Japanese drumming “Taiko” is a time-honored form of drumming that has been captivating audiences for nearly 2,000 years in religious ceremonies, festivals, for rain and crops, and on battlefields as soldiers prayed for elusive victory. Using handmade drums that range in height from 6 inches to 6 feet, the drummers create a unique synchronized booming rhythm that can be heard from quite a distance away.
Since 1998 the troupe has been under the leadership of Takemasa Ishikura, who influenced the group to play both traditional music and composed arrangements, the Matsuriza drum troupe is now a regular at Walt Disney World’s Epcot and various other festivals and events in the southeast region.
Tickets are $5 and are available at the door starting at 5:30 p.m. (Tickets are free for UT students who have opted-in.)
For more information about the Matsuriza drum troupe visit their website or view this highlight video of a previous performance.