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Event
Taiko Heroes 2
On Ensemble in concert with special guests Kristofer Bergstrom and Prota!
On Ensemble is at the forefront of a growing artistic movement in the taiko (Japanese ensemble drumming) world. Led by childhood friends Shoji Kameda and Masato (Maz) Baba, On Ensemble has made a name for itself by infusing the powerful rhythms of taiko with overtone singing, odd meter grooves and soaring melodies. Their fearless musical explorations have taken the ancient instruments of taiko into new realms and have established a distinctly modern expression for the art form. The group's unique sound has been praised as "completely original and brilliantly conceived." Modern Drummer magazine calls On Ensemble "an exciting taiko ensemble looking at new ways to apply traditional Japanese drums." In 2013 On Ensemble was the first American taiko group to be invited to perform at the National Theater of Japan for the prestigious Nihon no Taiko concert series.
Shoji and Maz were taught taiko at an early age (8 and 6) by Maz' parents, accomplished taiko players and jazz musicians Jeanne Mercer and Russel Baba, who started one of the first children's taiko groups in the United States. The duo has been playing and making music together for over 30 years and are recognized as two of the brightest stars in the taiko world. Together with the other members of On Ensemble they combine their study and deep appreciation of Japanese traditional music with equally formative experiences as DJs, electronic music producers, and rock bassists to produce, record and perform some of the most compelling and creative taiko music.. The group has released three critically acclaimed albums, Dust and Sand, Ume in the Middle and Bizarre Heroes and their music was featured in the award winning short film Yamasong.
Kristofer Bergstrom is a founding member of On Ensemble and currently the head instructor at the Los Angeles Taiko Institute. Known for his innovative naname and shime daiko style and his dedication to teaching and pedagogy Kris is a sought after teacher and performer.
Prota is a ragtag ensemble of taiko performers based in the Los Angeles area. With diverse backgrounds and experiences, Prota strives to bring innovative, high-energy taiko performance to a wide variety of venues. Prota members come from taiko groups all over the country: UCLA Kyodo Taiko, UCI Jodaiko, Stanford Taiko, Yukai Daiko, and Cornell Yamatai and features some of southern California's most promising young taiko players.
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LocationThe Miles Memorial Playhouse (View)
1130 Lincoln Blvd.
Santa Monica, CA 90403
United States
Categories
| Kid Friendly: Yes! |
| Dog Friendly: No |
| Wheelchair Accessible: Yes! |
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