Pre-Festival activities provide an opportunity to learn from visual and performing artists who will be involved in the Festival. Pre-Festival workshops include opportunities for both young people and adults in a variety of artistic disciplines.

Taiko Drum Workshop
with Nagata Shachu

2:00 p.m., Thursday, June 9th
Salina Central High School Band Room
650 East Crawford

Students learn about the history of the taiko and taught how the taiko has played an invaluable role in the life and culture of the Japanese people throughout the ages, especially as a symbol of community.

In addition to learning about the taiko’s history, participants will see first-hand how the traditional Japanese drum has evolved to a modern performing art, which combines complex rhythms and various sized drums with elements of choreography, stamina and discipline.

Examples include:

• A demonstration of how rhythms are learned orally
• A “show and tell” of the Ensemble’s various drums and instruments and what they are made from
• A demonstration of costumes worn by the performers and its significance.
• An explanation of the drummer’s shouts called “kiai” and the training and discipline required to play the taiko.

This clinic will include practical hand-on skills for beginner, intermediate or advanced levels with an emphasis on form, coordination, drumming with spirit, traditional rhythms, listening and teamwork skills.

Additional 2011 Pre-Festival Events will be available soon