Exploring Akatombo: An Asian American Taiko Performance

synchronized choreography enhancing the feminine aspect of the performance. Portland Taiko's vision emphasizes artistic excellence, innovation, Asian American pride, community building, and cultural education (Akatombo). In the Akatombo performance video, a Japanese folk hymn is recited before showcasing the two female drummers expertly playing five Taikos (which translates to "drum" in Japanese).

The performers start a synchronized and coordinated performance that combines visual and auditory elements. This is achieved through slow rhythmic beats and deliberate hand movements that are drawn out. The timing of the beats is not constant, as they build up to a climax and then decrease in intensity in two separate cycles. It is crucial to include women in Taiko practice because it has significant socio-cultural implications. By practicing Taiko, women are realizing their natural aptitude similar to their beating hearts.

On a personal level, striking a drum has various powerful effects such as being a creative outlet, a healing tool, a workout for mind and body, and a spiritual quest. This activity is not just limited to men but women are also creating drumming rituals to assert themselves instead of being mere spectators (Cummings 24). In addition to its feminist implications, the changing tempo, accompanied by flute interludes performed by a female artist in Akatombo, carries philosophical meanings that symbolize the ups and downs of life. The moments of slower tempo during the performance provide opportunities for deep philosophical contemplation. Due to the strong influence of Buddhism on Japanese folk music and culture, the fusion of art and philosophy is almost inevitable. It is worth noting that Taiko drumming used to be an important part of Japanese society even centuries ago.

According to Wong,

the Akatombo performance, like most Taiko performances, has a profound effect on the audience, leaving them in a state of deep reflection or meditation (36). While the drums and music are central to the performance, there is also a visual appeal to the sequence. Choreography and musical composition both contribute to creating a spectacle. In the Akatombo performance video, two women can be seen pounding drums that are mounted on stilts while engaging in a complex choreographed dance. The primal drumbeats provide a sensory experience, and the visual intricacies enhance the overall experience.

Musicians, with their legs spread wide for maximum dramatic effect, raise their drumsticks high in the air like warriors brandishing their weapons before striking their drums. Taiko, translated as 'fat drum' in Japanese, produces a loud yet gentle sound that permeates through the listener's body like a bold spring breeze. For centuries, Taiko drums have been utilized in Japan for a range of purposes, such as enhancing religious ceremonies and intimidating approaching armies (Toto 4). The example of Noami Guilbert provides valuable insights into the reasons why women are increasingly adopting this traditional Japanese art form.

Guilbert, who has a Japanese mother, has created her own drum group called Fubuki Daiko (foo-boo-key dye-ko), which translates to "blizzard drums." The name carries two meanings: one relates to the constant movement of the players and the other refers to the stormy weather commonly seen in Japan. Guilbert was captivated by Taiko drumming and was determined to master it. She describes the experience as "the physical and soulful exhilaration of belting ancient barrels with the same force mustered by a welterweight boxer" (Cummings 24). Furthermore, she states

that "the process of learning itself was a challenge for my feminist consciousness" (Guilbert, as quoted in Cummings 24).

Guilbert's feminist consciousness was also aroused in another manner. Despite being highly skilled, her teacher had the unfortunate habit of physically assaulting his students whenever they made mistakes.