Taiko Honors Ensemble - Drums (Japan)

Taiko drumming is an ancient art going back thousands of years. Kumidaiko, or group taiko drumming, however is relatively young having approximately a 60 year history. The Taiko Honors Ensemble is comprised of students from Kirkersville Elementary and Watkin Middle School (of Southwest Licking Schools) and Davis Middle School (of Dublin City Schools). The group is co-directed by Rachael Ungericht (SWL) and Susann Hubbell (DCS). The group first formed in 2004 as an extension of a year-long residency project with Master Taiko Artist, Eitetsu Hayashi. The group plays both traditional kumidaiko pieces, compositions by Master Taiko Artist Eitetsu Hayashi, and original compositions. The style of playing ranges from Hachijo style to traditional, varying by composition.