Taiko
DEFINITION
Taiko is the generic Japanese word for drum, sometimes spelled "daiko" when combined with another word. In Japan the word taiko simply refers to any drum, but outside of Japan it can refer to what the Japanese call wadaiko, which means “Japanese drums.” Traditional wadaiko drumming is believed to originate from the 6th century, and were used for anything from communication, military action, theatrical accompaniment, and religious ceremony to both festival and concert performances.<br><br>Kumi-daiko performance, characterized by an ensemble playing on different drums, was developed in 1951 through the work of Daihachi Oguchi.<br>