San Jose Taiko to Present Sounds of Traditional Japanese Drumming at RVCC Theatre

San Jose Taiko will share the sounds of traditional Japanese drumming with local audiences on Saturday, March 2, at 8 p.m., at The Theatre at Raritan Valley Community College, Branchburg. The group will present its performance of Rhythm Journey.

San Jose Taiko has captivated global audiences and critics alike with the powerful, spellbinding and propulsive sounds of taiko, the traditional Japanese drum. By studying with masters of other traditions and cultures, the group’s musicians have broadened and embellished this historical art form into a distinct performance style. The resulting music blends the traditional rhythms of Japanese drumming with the beat of world rhythms, including African, Brazilian, Filipino, Latin, and jazz. The result is often described as “dancing with drums.”

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, an instrument that embodies the spiritual essence and heartbeat of Japan.

Since then, San Jose Taiko has become a world-class ensemble, performing extensively both nationally and internationally, reaching more than 55,000 audience members each year. Known for synchronized choreography, eclectic musicality, and joyful spirit, the group offers performances that are sought throughout the world. For more information, visit www.taiko.org.

Tickets for San Jose Taiko’s performance of Rhythm Journey cost $45, $35, and $30. To purchase tickets or for additional information about any of the productions in RVCCArts’ current season, contact the Box Office, 908-725-3420, or order online at www.rvccArts.org. Senior citizen, student, and group discounts are also available for most performances.

RVCC is located at 118 Lamington Road in Branchburg, NJ. For further information, visit www.raritanval.edu.

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