Just Beat It

Mu Daiko's 15th anniversary concert shows why the ancient art of Japanese drumming still draws a crowd

Mu Daiko artistic director Iris Shiraishi's "Soaring III" perfectly evokes the idea of flying.

Image credit: Michal Daniel/Mu Daiko

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Dropping a Beat

Mu Daiko 15th Anniversary Concert

By: Lauren Peck

If you’re looking for an energetic introduction to taiko, Mu Daiko’s string of 15^th anniversary concerts is it.

My story is a case in point. I had very little previous exposure to the ancient Japanese drumming performance, but was immediately hooked when I attended their show at the Ordway Center for the Performing Art’s McKnight Theatre. The vibrations of their big drums rattling your bones, Mu Daiko's show is simply mesmerizing.

The most impressive part is the group's seemingly indefatigable energy. Despite the physical demands of taiko their love for playing – and one another – is evident from start to finish. Look for the little grins they send each other before a particularly difficult moment and how they cheer each other on when someone has a solo, nuances that show that a group can be incredibly serious about music, but still enjoy themselves.

It’s not jus the drumming, either. Mu Daiko uses an incredible amount of movement throughout their performance, making every drum hit appear to be a subtle dance move. In more upbeat pieces, the players also twirl, jump, and chant around their drums, creating a wonderful performance to watch as well as listen to.

The show is also notable for the fact that it is made up of original taiko compositions by various members, Mu Performing Arts' artistic director Rick Shiomi and guest artist Megan Chao Smith. Their pieces show the incredible range of the taiko drum from the familiar pounding rhythms to softer pieces. Mu Daiko also includes other musical elements, including guitar, flute and vocalists in many of the compositions.

The piece "Soaring III," composed by Mu Daiko artistic director Iris Shiraishi and Alex Lubet, is a particularly noteworthy number. The mix of drums, vocals, guitar and bass creates a beautiful and haunting performance that perfectly evokes the idea of flying.

Another amazing piece is Smith’s "Warabe Ute.” This is the only piece where the players use the taiko drums like marching band drums, and with the introduction of flute playing as well, it's amazing to see that taiko can also be adapted into a more military, march-like style. It also gives Smith an opportunity to show off her fantastic drumming skills, her hands absolutely flying throughout the song.

Even for a novice, it’s clear to see why Mu Daiko has amassed such a following in Minnesota over the last 15 years. If this performance was any indication, the group is sure to attract even more interest in the years ahead.

+ Mu Daiko's Fire & Flow 15th anniversary concert runs through Sunday, Feb. 19 at the Ordway’s McKnight Theatre. For its second week of performances, Mu Daiko will be joined by the Japanese group Hanayui, a famed folk dance group with taiko accompaniment, as well as guest artists Tiffany Tamaribuchi and Megan Chao Smith. For tickets and more information, visit muperformingarts.org.