Group History#
Lethbridge, Alberta is a member of the Twinning Society, twinned with Towada, Japan. In 2003, representatives from Lethbridge visited our twin city and returned with a keen interest and some experience in Taiko. Consequently, a drumming group was formed as part of the Lethbridge Twinning Society (LTS). This group operated under the LTS for a few years.
In 2007, the drummers elected to become Lethbridge Community Taiko Association (LCTA), a not-for-profit society. The society began with 7 members and became the supporting organization for the drummers. Over the years the membership has had ebbs and flows, ranging in number from 12 to 35, but has the resilience to continue, due to the love of taiko. LCTA has also rented practice spaces in a variety of locations where they shared space but is presently in a bay that is occupied by the drummers only. Current membership (2025) is 21.
Founding Inspiration#
During and following WWII, many Japanese families were relocated to Southern Alberta. Eventually the formation of the Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden, a major tourist attraction in Lethbridge, Alberta, was created, celebrating the impact of the Japanese on the culture of Southern Alberta. This, along with the twinning of cities, Towada, Japan and Lethbridge, Alberta, provided an interest in taiko. Continued local interest and ongoing recruitment of new members have kept LCTA (Lethbridge Community Taiko Association) a viable and resilient drumming group. Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden has been a wonderful location to perform taiko, regularly hosting LCTA for many years and for some exciting engagements. The lively energy and physicality of the performance style of Taiko is very captivating and interesting to audiences. As a community group, we accept members regardless of their musical training or background. Public performances and engagements throughout Southern Alberta have meant continued interest in taiko.
Notable History#
- 2017: Performing for the Princess of Japan at NYJG
- 2023: Celebration of the 100 th anniversary of the Lethbridge Playgoers
- University of Lethbridge 50 th anniversary Alumni Celebration
- Annual Whoop Up Days parade
- Various Asian Festivals or Multicultural events throughout Lethbridge
Performance Material Sources#
Open source/copy left resources, as well as “community songs” taught at conferences and workshops. Some compositions from directors over the years.
Taiko Community Mentors in the Group#
- Marc Vantol (BMus in percussion and can teach and perform on all areas of music)
- Multiple (grant writing and drum repair)