The Portland Taiko Ensemble -- the performing core of Portland Taiko -- is a dynamic, five-member company that performs for all ages at universities, schools, festivals, and theaters.
The Ensemble brings the excitement of taiko to new communities through its tours and residencies. The company's versatility in performance programming lends itself to a range of venues. Members of the ensemble are also experienced teachers who offer workshops, lecture/demonstrations and other educational programs.
See a list of who has booked Portland
Taiko
Performance Options:
Full-Length Concert (90-minute program)
Inspired by the journey to find home, Rhythms of Change: The Way Home
weaves spoken word, movement, scenic elements, costumes and lighting
with the dynamic rhythms of the big drums to bring to life the search for
home and all that comes with it. This theatrical concert evokes the emotions
and experiences of those who have persevered to find home. Five to six performers.
Performances to Fit Your Event/Venue (30-60 minutes)
Available both indoors and out, these shorter performances are tailored
for festivals, schools and other public or private groups. Theses shows
include audience participation if desired and technical requirements are
minimal. Number of performers based on the performance.
School Assembly Programs (45-55 minute programs)
Offered to elementary, middle and high school audiences, Portland Taiko's
assembly programs teach students about the origins of taiko in Japan and
the three lessons of taiko thunder (respect, cooperation, perseverance)
while weaving humorous storytelling and lively drumming. The age-specific
shows engage the audience in an upbeat celebration of Asian-American culture.
Three to five performers.
Hands-on Taiko Workshops
Workshops for children (ages 7-17) or adults (18 and up) with all levels
of prior experience offer a hands-on introduction to playing taiko, from
form and philosophy, to history and oral tradition, including learning a
song. 1-1.5 hrs. for children; 1-3 hrs. for adults. Maximum enrollment:
24
Lecture/Demonstration (Approx. 45 minutes-1 hour)
Introducing the background and history of taiko, early uses of the drum
in Japanese and Asian culture, different types of drums, philosophy and
oral tradition, as well as an overview of American taiko and its context
in Asian-American history. Two to three performers/lecturers.
Residencies (3-10 visits)
Portland Taiko expands on hands-on workshops by offering an exploration
of taiko. From detailed studies of the history of taiko to learning songs
and presenting recitals, elementary to college students have the opportunity
to embrace art form in depth. Gomikan (practice drum) making is optional;
best experienced in classroom-sized groups.
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