OEDO SUKEROKU TAIKO
大 江 戸 助 六 太 鼓
Translation: The drums of Tokyo
Oedo Sukeroku Taiko, is a group of musicians who have traveled the world, performing for people everywhere. They were the first group in Tokyo to perform for audiences using only taiko
drums which create a vibrant sound that is found in the heart of traditional Japanese music and festivals. This group is one of the most martial, and refined groups out there.
Oedo Sukeroku Taiko was created by Seido Kobayashi in 1959. Kobayashi was a champion of Bon Daiko, the form of drumming played during the o-Bon summer festivals to accompany the ritual dancing of the Bon Odori. Kobayashi wished to expand the boundaries of taiko beyond the set rhythms of festival music. To do this, Kobayashi, with the young musicians that he trains, composed a broad set of music in adaptations of traditional percussion styles of the taiko sounds of folklore. His style of music is descended from agrarian and religious rituals, and includes many of his own original creations.
The name which Kobayashi bestowed upon his group, Oedo Sukeroku Taiko, symbolizes his music as deeply rooted in tradition but also turned to creation and research. Included in that, "Edo" was the name for Tokyo until the late 19th century. The name "Edo" refers to the Edo period which was a rich time of culture and creativity. "Sukeroku" was a chivalrous hero of the famous Edo-period Kabuki play - Sukeroku was a brave samurai, as well as a talented artist and lady's-man.
Oedo Sukeroku Taiko, runs classes in the Tokyo area, which gathers more than 200 students. Since 1990 the group has also held an intensive five-day residential workshop every year in August, for 50 students of all levels
To find out more about Oedo Sukeroku Taiko, visit their website:
www.oedosukerokutaiko.com
However, be forewarned for it is in Japanese, and is thus, very difficult to read. My apologies to anyone I earlier offended.
To contact Oedo Sukeroku Taiko:
Oedo Sukeroku Daiko
Hosono Bldg 1F
2-1-13 Sotokanda
Chiyoda Ku, Tokyo
Japan
Tel: +81 03 3255 3484
http://www2u.biglobe.ne.jp/~oedo/