New Mexico Taiko

Japanese Drumming Group

There is no mistaking when New Mexico Taiko begins to play—the resonant tones of the drums working together can quickly fill any performance space and command the immediate attention of anyone in the vicinity. Taiko's appeal is rooted both in its thundering drum tones and in the highly disciplined, ceremonial approach to performance that group members employ.

Although a self-proclaimed "garage band" in lighter moments, New Mexico Taiko has actually been around for quite awhile and has done performances at many prominent civic and private events in New Mexico. Group leader Calvin Kobayashi began playing taiko over 25 years ago. New Mexico Taiko was one of the first taiko groups in the Southwestand started during the first wave of taiko groups in the United States.

What is Taiko?

Taiko is a blend of martial arts choreography and synchronized drumming. Taiko simply means "great drum" in Japanese and now taiko has taken on the universal meaning of an art form.

With origins in ancient Japanese tradition, taiko drumming dates back approximately 2,000 years. It was used in battle, in religious ceremonies, in theater settings, at community festivals, and even for insect control. Modern displays of taiko are mostly limited to celebratory performance.

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New Mexico Taiko is part of the Japanese American Citizens League New Mexico Chapter, a 501(c)3 charitable organization.

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New Mexico Taiko is available for performances! Click for more info.

Miyagi Ryu Okinawa dance group

under the direction of Yaeko Miyazato

This dance group is part of the New Mexico Japanese American Citizens League (NMJACL), a chapter of the National non-profit organization, which promotes Japanese culture in and out of New Mexico.

Okinawa dance movements are closely associated to karate movements as this was a form of self-defense in ancient times when the art of karate was reserved for samurais or nobility. Self-defense for farmers, fishermen and other lower class groups had to be camouflaged by the art of Okinawa dance.

All performer costumes are authentic and were brought over from Okinawa.

For more information concerning performances please contact Ms. Miyazato at 505-332-3294 or e-mail is YMiyazato@msn.com.