Japanology Plus: Season 2014, Episode 17

2014 - 17: Taiko Drums

Japan's taiko drums - made in many shapes and sizes, played at various occasions - are an ancient heritage. Originally taiko were an integral part of festivals and rituals, used to summon the gods. In recent years, taiko drumming has been admired as a form of music in its own right. Our guest this time is Hitoshi Mogi, a taiko expert at the National Theatre who has exhaustive knowledge of Japanese drumming traditions. And in Plus One, getting in shape with taiko!