World Music Lecture-Performance
Kaoru Watanabe, taiko drums and shinobue flutes

Japanese taiko drumming is a modern blend of traditional festival drumming and contemporary percussion ensemble playing. Growing out of postwar Japan, it features performance techniques that are starkly different from Western practice, with graceful, powerful body movements reminiscent of dance or martial arts. A masterful and engaging performer, Kaoru Watanabe will present a concert of traditional and original compositions that push the boundaries of tradition into innovative combinations. The concert will also feature taiko drummer Fumi Tanakadate, master Korean Piri player Gamin, and violist Michael Casimir.

Videos of Watanabe can be seen at http://www.watanabekaoru.com/media/

This event will satisfy the World Music requirement for Boyer undergraduate students.

Photo: watanabekaoru.com/