BLOOMINGTON, Ind. – Internationally renowned taiko performing arts ensemble Kodo is ready to drum its way from Japan to Bloomington on February 21—bringing heart, history, and high-energy taiko drumming to the stage. IU Auditorium is thrilled to be a stop on Kodo’s Warabe North American tour.

 

Striving to both preserve and re-interpret traditional Japanese performing arts, Kodo explores the limitless possibilities of the traditional Japanese drum, the taiko. Since the group’s debut at the Berlin Festival in 1981, Kodo has given over 7,000 performances on five continents, forging new directions for a vibrant living art-form.

 

“Kodo’s performances transcend the boundaries of rhythm and movement, creating an unforgettable sensory experience,” said IU Auditorium Executive Director, Maria Talbert. “Their mastery of traditional Japanese drumming and bold contemporary artistry will leave the audience in awe of their unparalleled energy and precision.”

 

Director Yuichiro Funabashi states, “’Let your soul dance to the rhythm of life! For our 40th anniversary, we created two works based on our name: Tsuzumi takes its name and theme from the drum character and Warabe from the child element.” Funabashi continues, “With our Warabe performance, Kodo looks to its classic repertoire and aesthetics from the ensemble’s early days. This production blends simple forms of taiko expression that celebrate the unique sound, resonance, and physicality synonymous with Kodo—forever children of the drum at heart. We invite everyone to come and experience the soul-stirring rhythm of life firsthand.”

 

Spending about a third of the year overseas, a third touring in Japan, and a third rehearsing and preparing new material on Sado Island, Kodo strives to both preserve and re-interpret traditional Japanese performing arts. Beyond this, members on tours and research trips all over the globe have brought back to Sado a kaleidoscope of world music and experiences which now exerts a strong influence on the group's performances and compositions. Collaborations with other artists and composers extend right across the musical spectrum and Kodo's lack of preconceptions about its music continues to produce startling new fusion and forms.

 

Kodo Engagement with IU Students

During their time in Bloomington, IU students will get the opportunity to interact and learn from members of Kodo. The company will meet with students from IU’s Japanese language program discussing taiko drumming and its cultural significance in Japanese culture and traditions. Kodo will also open their rehearsal on show day for students and faculty from IU’s Asian Culture Center and answer questions after the rehearsal.