Kodo, the legendary Japanese taiko drumming ensemble, explores the boundless potential of the traditional drum, captivating audiences with its raw power, athleticism, and precision. Known globally as the “grandfather group” of taiko drumming, Kodo’s rich history continues to breathe new life into ancient traditions. The ensemble will make its Blacksburg debut at the Moss Arts Center on Thursday, Feb. 27, at 7:30 p.m.
A typical Kodo performance begins with a single, powerful strike on the drum, followed by other drummers joining in to create a layered, immersive sonic landscape. The physicality of the performance is just as captivating, with the drummers moving with both strength and grace as they navigate intricate choreography.
Celebrating over 40 years of musical excellence, Kodo’s “One Earth Tour 2025: Warabe” draws inspiration from the group’s classic repertoire and the aesthetics of its early years. This family-friendly performance showcases taiko drumming that embodies the sound, resonance, and physicality that Kodo is known for—forever children of the drum at heart.
The theme of “Warabe” is inspired by Sado Island, Kodo’s home since 1971. The island’s connection to nature, reflected in each of its four seasons, is a place where traditional ways of life and indigenous performing arts continue to thrive. For “Warabe,” the Kodo performers created new music that channels the essence of the unique environment they call home.
Yuichiro Funabashi, director and leader of Kodo, shared, “Our audience is an integral part of every performance. We truly appreciate their presence and hope they feel our gratitude in every beat of the drum. Join us and let your soul dance to the rhythm of life in this joyous, visceral concert experience.”
Since its debut at the Berlin Festival in 1981, Kodo has performed over 6,500 times across five continents, spending about a third of the year abroad, another third touring Japan, and the rest rehearsing and developing new material.
Kodo is dedicated to both preserving and reinterpreting traditional Japanese performing arts. Their tours and research trips around the world have brought a diverse range of world music and experiences back to Sado, enriching their performances and compositions. Collaborations with artists and composers from various musical genres continue to push boundaries, creating fresh, unexpected fusions.
This performance is made possible in part by a generous gift from Ms. Constance Cedras and additional support from the Elizabeth McIntosh Mitchell Trauger Excellence Fund.
On Friday, Feb. 28, Kodo will also offer a free matinee performance for over 1,000 students and educators from grades six through 12, representing multiple counties in Virginia, as well as Radford and Roanoke cities. In partnership with InclusiveVT, participants from the Culture and Context Through the Arts professional development course will also attend the performance, followed by an engaging post-performance discussion.
Local families will have the opportunity to attend Kodo’s Moss performance through the community ticket program. In collaboration with New River Community Action, this initiative fosters community engagement and makes Moss Arts Center performances more accessible to under-resourced families.
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