The perpetuating sounds of the taiko drums are well known in Hawaii, and Sunday, the drum school Taiko Kauai will share its deep beats again. Residents and visitors will be able to experience the drums’ rhythmic sounds at the Lawai
The perpetuating sounds of the taiko drums are well known in Hawaii, and Sunday, the drum school Taiko Kauai will share its deep beats again.
Residents and visitors will be able to experience the drums’ rhythmic sounds at the Lawai International Center, beginning at 11:30 a.m and ending at 12:30 p.m. There will be a lecture, a demonstration and a hands-on workshop for all ages. The performance will be instructed by taiko teacher and co-founder of Taiko Kauai, Ray Nitta.
“I thought it was really important to perpetuate the art and culture of taiko drumming,” Nitta said.
A man always interested in studying the art of taiko, Nitta began learning to play from his friend and teacher Kenny Endo, who periodically came to Kauai from Honolulu.
As Nitta continued to learn the drums through his teacher, the duo was soon approached by Earl Ikeda, a man interested in establishing a taiko group on Kauai. Ikeda enlisted Nitta to gather members and Taiko Kauai was born.
Since its creation 10 years ago, the group has grown to 25 members, who alternate leadership roles.
As the performers take the stage on Sunday, guests are welcomed to donate proceeds, which will help the International Center, a nonprofit organization.
