Japanese Traditional Instruments

Our February program and lovely Maymont was a wonderful exploration of Japanese traditional musical instruments and music. Yumiko (Yumi) Hwang and her associate Thomas Fulks, who are members of the River City Taiko headquarterd in Richmond, treated us to a slide presentation featuring photos of Yumi’s family and temple home. In addition, they brought Japanese drums and smaller instruments which they played for us. The assortment of handmade Taiko drums ranged from about 18 inches to 30 inches in diameter. In addition, Yumi brought her great grandmother’s harp which featured a hand carved horizontal wooden case approximately six feet long and had many strings. While Yumi is still learning to play this complex instrument, she shared its wonderful ethereal sound with us.
Yumi was born and raised in the Buddhist temple in Yamaguchi prefecture in Japan. She studied ballet, but in 2012 became a Taiko player. Besides being a performing member of River City Taiko, Yumiko has collaborated as a guest artist with Kenny Endo, Taiko master in Hawaii, and UnitOne in California. In Japan, the Taiko is believed to be the most powerful spiritual purification instrument, and it is understandably Yumiko’s favorite. The Taiko as well as the stands are handmade by a River City Taiko member.
The program ended with an exciting performance on the Taiko drums by Yumi and Thomas which fully demonstrated to the enjoyment of all their artistry and skill.

Arrangement by Annette Ernst

Arrangement by Yumiko Hwang

Playing Japanese Traditional Instruments Workshop

​The workshop following the program resulted in the public introduction of the first two Ikebana of Richmond Taiko ensembles. Yumi Whang demonstrated Taiko techniques to two groups of five participants.  Some members were asked to keep time with drumsticks or play special hand-held instruments to accompany the drums. Players were able to experience drums in all sizes each of which had its own special sound and touch. By the end of the workshop, the two ensembles performed a complete song with Yumi acting as maestro. 
This workshop was all about letting go and having a blast!