Denitsa Yotova’s Weblog

For many, Japanese culture is a mystery, but there are some fun ways to learn more about it beyond the history journals and books.

The Clark County Library on 1401 E. Flamingo Road in the UNLV neighborhood, offers a glimpse of this rich culture with the live music performance of the Las Vegas Kaminari Taiko. Their concert “The Sound of Thunder” will be held at 2 p.m.on May 11, at the library theater.

According to the library website,

“Taiko was brought to the United States by Japanese immigrants in the early 20th century. However, it took the late George Goto to bring this unique music form to Las Vegas in 1993 when he formed Las Vegas Kaminari Taiko. This exciting Southern Nevada taiko troupe is composed of uchite (taiko drummers) who have a deep respect for this ancient art form. They have dedicated many hours learning and sharing this knowledge. Join us for a special concert of music and performance as we celebrate Las Vegas Kaminari Taiko’s 15 years of performing in Las Vegas.”

The Las Vegas Kaminari Taiko website provides history about the instrument, as wells as detailed information about its use and influence for many centuries now.

For those who want to get involved with the ancient performance art a little further, the organization also offers classes and opportunities to become part of the troupe after auditioning.

 As noted on the organization website,

“We hold practice every Tuesday and Sunday at a dojo located in Southern Las Vegas’ developing Chinatown. Our dojo is open from: 6:00pm to 9:00pm on Tuesdays (Open Practice Session) & 12 noon to 5:30pm. on Sundays (Formal Practice Session). We are located at: 4030 Schiff Dr.Las Vegas, NV 89103.“

For more information about the Las Vegas Kaminari Taiko, visit http://www.lvkaminaritaiko.org/aboutus.htm.

For detailed schedule of upcoming events in the Clark County Library visit http://www.lvccld.org/events/search_result.cfm?nForm=1&nEvnttp=0&nLbr=1&sKwrd=