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Photo by Raymond Wong |
San Jose Taiko was founded in 1973 by young Asian Americans searching for an outlet to convey their experiences as third generation Japanese Americans, or Sansei. Looking to Japan for inspiration, they were drawn to the empowering sounds of the taiko, the Japanese drum, an instrument that embodies the spiritual essence and heartbeat of Japan and its people, replete with continued possibilities, renewal and transformation. With its roots in the folk tradition of Japan, the taiko has served many purposes. Priests used taiko to chase evil spirits and insects from the rice fields; samurai used taiko to bolster their courage and to instill fear in the enemy; villagers used taiko to pray for rain, to enliven festivals, and to give thanks for bountiful harvests. Indeed, the practice and performance of taiko requires selfless dedication, physical endurance, harmony, and a collective spirit. San Jose Taiko has adopted these traditional values and infused the art of taiko with the vitality and freshness of their American spirit to create a dynamic and compelling Asian American art form. With the power and beauty of taiko at its center, San Jose Taiko aims to transcend cultural boundaries and to foster greater understanding of Japanese American culture. The music of San Jose Taiko weaves traditional Japanese sounds with the beat of world rhythms. At San Jose Taiko, Japanese, African, Balinese, Latin, American rock and jazz merge to produce an innovative contemporary sound that bridges diverse styles and resonates with the Asian soul in America. Availability: General
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Music & Dance of the Andes is a vibrant music and dance ensemble. Dressed in authentic and colorful Incan attire, the musicians share the sights, sounds, and culture of ancient Peru and all of Latin America. They perform both traditional songs and original compositions on many beautiful instruments. Each song and dance has a special importance, meaning or background in Andean folklore. INCA SON shares their culture in workshops, performances in schools, community settings and in full-scale stage productions. They have performed across America, recently with the Boston Pops for a PBS performance, at the Kennedy Center and with the Grant Park Symphony in Chicago. Availability: General
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