St. Clair Productions presents the On Ensemble, contemporary and traditional Japanese Taiko drumming, on Saturday, April 13, 8 p.m., at the Unitarian Fellowship, 87 4th St., Ashland. Meidoko opens the show. Tickets are $20 in advance, $22 at the door, $10 for 12-17 and free under 12. Tickets available at www.stclairevents.com, 541-535-3562 or the Music Coop in downtown Ashland.
Masato Baba : taiko, yokobue, voice, percussion; Kristofer Bergstrom : taiko, turntable, shamisen, koto; Shoji Kameda : taiko, throat singing, yokobue, percussion; Kelvin Underwood : taiko, drum set, voice, percussion.
With Japanese drums at the foundation of its world fusion mix, On Ensemble takes the ancient instruments of taiko into new realms. Infusing the powerful rhythms of ensemble Japanese drumming with elements of hip-hop, rock and electronica, On Ensemble's unique sound has been praised as "completely original and brilliantly conceived." Modern Drummer magazine calls On Ensemble "an exciting taiko ensemble looking at new ways to apply traditional Japanese drums."
On Ensemble's four members are individually recognized as leading artists in their field. Sought after as teachers, workshop leaders, composers and performers, On Ensemble members have been featured in the music of the hit TV show "Heroes", in the David Mamet movie "Redbelt" and performing with Stevie Wonder at the 2008 Democratic National Convention. As On Ensemble they combine their study and deep appreciation of tradition with equally formative experiences as DJs, electronic music producers, Jazz drummers, and rock bassists to create a repertoire of ground-breaking music.
Comments