Taiko Drumming with Carolyn Koebel and Jonathan Wegner

Explore the ancient art of taiko drumming at this talk on the taiko tradition, featuring a live performance by local artists Carolyn Koebel and Jonathan Wagner, of the professional taiko drumming group Michigan Hiryu Daiko. Taiko drums have played a significant role in Japanese culture since the 6th century CE, and were historically used in rituals and festivals, on battle lines, and to accompany theatrical performances in popular styles such as Kabuki and Noh. These awe-inspiring instruments are still enjoyed around the world today, as a key part of both traditional and contemporary performances. Koebel and Wagner will address the history and contemporary use of taiko, and will offer a live demonstration of the instruments in performance.