Japanese Taiko Drumming and the Instruments of Asia

Eileen Morgan’s program explores the fascinating cultures of the Far East through exciting performances and an interactive lecture that showcases the mesmerizing Taiko drum, beautiful bamboo wind instruments and the unique percussion instruments of Japan, China, Korea, and Vietnam.

The lecture includes the geography and science of these instruments; where they are from, how the use of native resources affects how they are made and played, how these instruments overlap with those of other cultures. Using leading questions and audience participation to facilitate further involvement in the learning process, the audience is encouraged to predict how instruments are played and analyze the result of their predictions.

Children and adults alike are fascinated by other cultures; their similarities, their differences and what we can learn from each other. Music creates community as well as encourages cultural diversity. Introducing these unique instruments to children and adults provides a wonderful opportunity to explore, identify, understand, and ultimately create a link between the peoples of the world.

“Japanese Taiko Drumming and the Musical Instruments of Asia” incorporates demonstration, lecture, audience participation and hands on with instruments that further encourages the audience to learn more about the culture, society, and science of these unique instruments.