Arashi Daiko

We are reviving and learning an old piece: an original composition by Arashi Daiko member Mikio Owaki titled Nijikko.Translated as “rainbow children,” the piece captures the free-spirited nature of childhood, and we invite the audience to have fun with us. It is performed by seven drummers, each representing a different colour of the rainbow.

Another piece that we are reviving and learning is called Nikkei Spirit. It is composed by former Arashi Daiko member Sandra Kadowaki. Inspired by her family’s arrival in Canada a century ago, this piece is for all who first arrived, strived and then thrived, and the determination to make something from nothing through hard work. It is this spirit that compels us to find ourselves at home no matter where we are. More and more drummers join throughout the piece, representing the growing Nikkei community in Canada over the years.

We practiced basic hits and drills, and played a section of a piece called Narukami (“thunder god”), also an original composition by Mikio Owaki.

One of the most important parts of our practice is preparation. Everyone participates in cleaning the floors, we stretch with radio taiso, and we dance and sing. Finally, we bow together to signal the official start of our session. This routine ensures that our bodies, voices, and minds are fully ready for taiko practice.

Every practice begins with a warm-up consisting of basic hits and drills. We work on different types of strikes, both big and small, while emphasizing form and bachi control.

Hana Fubuki is a new piece by Mikio Owaki. It is translated as “flower blizzard”, inspired by the beauty of cherry blossom petals dancing in the wind in the spring. It is a light-hearted piece played on the okedo.