Press kit, Taiko drumming · Press kit, official use
Taiko means, “drum” in Japanese and “Uzume” is the Japanese Goddess of Laughter. Uzume Taiko is known around the world for its bold musical collaborations, humour and theatrical stage presence. They have hand crafted a unique brand of West Coast Canadian taiko drumming that offers a visual, sonic and sensual experience to their audience. Since being formed in 1989, Uzume Taiko`s line-up has changed and expanded to compliment the development and evolution of the group. The current ensemble is composed of Artistic Director Bonnie Soon, Musical Director Jason Overy, performers Jordy Riley, Boyd Seiichi Grealy and Naomi Kajiwara. Canada’s first professional taiko drumming group has released seven CDs, a concert DVD and performed countless local, national and international shows and participated in teaching and sharing its knowledge of this musical art form at North American and Regional Taiko Conferences and while on their travels around the globe. With its powerful synthesis of music, movement and theatre, Uzume Taiko has won fans throughout the world. Using a diverse collection of percussive and melodic instruments as well as taiko drums, Uzume Taiko has developed a dynamic fusion of old and new styles of drumming — bringing a vibrant, contemporary sensibility to an ancient art.
