KOKUBU - The Drums of Japan
The Drums of Japan:
KOKUBU will embark on a major tour of Germany in 2025 with "SOUND OF LIFE"
KOKUBU - one of the largest drum shows in the world is coming to Germany in 2025, taking the audience on a magical journey to Japan, balancing between artistic drum storms and delicate bamboo flute tones. The celebrated Japanese drum show KOKUBU impresses with its new show "SOUND OF LIFE" featuring furious rhythms and powerful athleticism.
Japan, the land of the rising sun, as it is also called here. It has always exerted a strong fascination. And we are not talking about sushi, judo, or high-performance drift cars. No, the fascination with Japan lies mainly, or at least largely, in the distinctive differences that characterize the country. On one hand, there is the high-tech nation with numerous global corporations, and then there is an empire with centuries-old traditions. The latter corresponds to the cultural ethos of KOKUBU.
KOKUBU is one of the most well-known Taiko drum groups worldwide. With their impressive performance, the Japanese culture and energy are united. Their trademark is the perfect symbiosis of traditional craftsmanship and modern entertainment, captivating audiences of all ages. The drummers of KOKUBU are not only virtuosos on their instruments but also masters of staging, creating a magical atmosphere with spectacular choreography and impressive lighting effects.
Drums that make the ground shake
KOKUBU is an indescribably captivating experience for ears, eyes, heart, and soul. The exceptional group dressed in black kimonos and white headbands spans the musical spectrum from the ground-shaking acoustic hurricane of the drums to subtle rhythms and the gentle tones of the bamboo vertical flute (Shakuhachi). With changing formations and using three differently sized tube drums (Taikos), the ensemble founded in 1998 from Osaka, led by Shakuhachi master Chiaki Toyama, presents a breathtaking rhythm on stage in astounding synchrony or in contrasting styles.
In 2024, two large O-Daiko drums will be introduced for the first time, giving the group an even more impressive appearance. Their covering is played by an athlete with two massive, forearm-thick sticks. The counterpoint is formed by delicate flute tones. Their Far Eastern sound enchants immediately. Thus, a music that seems magically appealing to Europeans is created. To aid the understanding of this craft rooted deeply in ancient tradition, each piece is preceded by a short introduction. It explains (in German) the meaning of the respective songs, which deal with themes such as the oneness of body and spirit, joy of life, nature, the power of the seasons, or the belief that "one should move forward without looking back."
In addition to the authentic and hypnotically fascinating energy of this spectacular show, KOKUBU pursues another approach: the profound spirituality of Japan is made experienceable with every tone. This is ensured by Masamitsu Takasaki, world champion of the three-string plucked instrument Tsugaru-Shamisen, and Karin Toyama, who will enrich the event with the lovely sounds of the Koto - a plucked instrument similar to our zither. A new stage design and a spectacular lighting concept round off the extraordinary drumming event.
Doors open at 18:00.
Hallo, ich bin Maya.
