Drum Tao: The Art of Drum 2012

CEBU, Philippines - Founded as a music and performance ensemble in 1993, Drum Tao’s imaginative approach in combining the temporal elements of taiko performances, martial arts, dance and music has propelled the group to international acclaim, a powerhouse ensemble responsible for causing progressive shifts in the standards and conventions of traditional Japanese drum performances and routines.

Following the successful run of Drum Tao: The Art of Drum 2012 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resorts World Manila last July, Drum Tao is more than ready to wow Cebuano audiences with its unique take on taiko shows, highlighting the use of exotic instruments played with choreographed martial arts and dance sequences.

“We consider our show to be a contemporary form of the traditional Japanese drum concert, combining different performance styles and techniques which result to an exiting spectacle to experience,” shares Drum Tao performer Taro Harasaki during the Drum Tao: The Art of Drum 2012 press conference held last August 28, 2012.

“Though our show features the classic elements of traditional taiko concerts, it is unique with its combination of modern elements and the combination of other drum styles from different parts of the world.” Harasaki further shares.

As a drum and dance ensemble, Drum Tao is famed for its no-nonsense approach in training, ascribing a strict daily regimen steeped from the training conventions of martial arts. Already up and about as early as 5 AM, Drum Tao performers spend most of their days practicing, with practice sessions ending as late as 10 PM.

Keen on growing as masters of the art of the drum, a number of Drum Tao’s ensemble performers have gone as far as learning Korean drumming and dancing styles, as well as learning what they can from the Maori of New Zealand, with all the lessons they gain playing an integral role in the evolution of Drum Tao’s performances.

Having built a reputation for showcasing the most “sensational Japanese entertainment show anyone could ever get to experience”, Drum Tao’s avant garde approach in the Japanese art of taiko performances stands to be one of Cebu’s more notable highlights this year, one which bears a distinct and exciting flavor that is unique in itself.

Drum Tao: The Art of Drum 2012 will take place in the Grand Ballroom of Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino on September 1, 2012, with two performances at 3PM and at 8PM. Tickets are available at SM Cinemas, the Ayala Center Cebu Customer Service Desk and at Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino.

They will make a stop at SM City Cebu today, Thursday, at the Northwing Atrium for an exclusive performance as well as a meet and greet.