Matsuriza: Taiko Drums at Epcot's Japan Pavilion

In the Japanese language "Taiko" means "great drum." For fans and guests of the Japan Pavilion at Walt Disney World's Epcot theme park, "Taiko" means you are in for a really great show.

Traditional Japanese Drumming and it's history can be "traced back for centuries as a way to reflect the spirit and essence of the Japanese people during religious ceremonies, harvest festivals and even on the battlefield." Drums were used to give orders, set a marching pace and the raise morale of Japanese fighting troops.

Matsuriza Taiko Drums at Epcot's Japan Pavilion
Handmade Taiko drums can range in height from a tiny 6 inches to truly "great" 6 feet. With pulled heads on both sides of the drum's body, the pitch of the drum comes from the tension they are held by. An empty cavity in the center of the drum provides the resonating sound. The artists who preform this traditional drumming create an enticing ballet of booming rhythm and well choreographed synchronicity.

At Epcot the thunderous sounds of 'Matsuriza' echo across the waters of World Showcase in a rhythmic invitation for guests to come enjoy their performance.
Set up on the main stage beneath the Japan Pavilion's 5-story pagoda. "Founded by Takoma's Ishikura in 1998, this percussion troupe is part of the relatively recent art-form of ensemble taiko drumming that is sweeping around the world. 'Matsuriza' performs both traditional arrangements and its own compositions at locales around the world."

Taiko drumming has become more popular now than ever. It's rhythmic beats and distinctive sounds can be heard in all sorts of performance genres from traditional concerts to Hollywood pictures. Groups such as 'Matsuriza' tour the world bringing the sounds and traditions of Taiko.

Performances of 'Matsuriza' at Epcot's Japan Pavilion occur at different times throughout the day. Be sure to check the Show Times Guide so that you don't miss this fantastic Taiko performance.

Do you enjoy Taiko drumming? Did you first learn about Taiko at Walt Disney World? Leave a comment below and let me know!

Source: WDW