ugene Taiko is a community-based Japanese drumming ensemble that has been performing for audiences throughout Oregon since 1989. Taiko simply means "drum" in Japanese, but Eugene Taiko truly brings its drums alive with powerful beats and spellbinding rhythms. Performing modern interpretations of traditional pieces as well as their own compositions, the members of Eugene Taiko bring their energetic enthusiasm to each of the group's performances.
The current roster of Eugene Taiko includes ten members, who hail from a variety of backgrounds and range in age from the very youthful to those slightly more "seasoned." All of the Eugene Taiko performers share a passion for the art of taiko, which provides a welcome diversion from the daily travails of their professional or student lives. The group performs regularly for local schools; at special cultural events; and at the annual Obon Festival, Oregon Asian Celebration, Salem World Beat Festival, and Coburg (Oregon) Golden Years Festival. The members also train and mentor the children of Waka Daiko, the local youth taiko drumming ensemble. In addition, Eugene Taiko annually introduces a group of 3rd and 4th graders at McCornack Elementary School in Eugene to the joy of taiko drumming, culminating with a spring graduation concert.
The members of Eugene Taiko are:
- Erika Butler
- Alex Caves
- Alisa Caves
- Amy Caves
- George Karabinis
- Randy Nishimura
- Steve Robare
- Meredith Wood
- Tsuili Wu
- Lois Yoshishige
- Kathy Cunningham
- Tim Cunningham
- Chris Highfield
- Jean Lee