TaikOz The Gathering October 18, 2008

As apart of their 2008 tour, Taikoz, Australia’s premiere taiko drum ensemble present their latest show at Riverside Theatres on Saturday 18 October at 7.30pm for one performance only. THE GATHERING promises an unforgettable concert experience. With ancient drum practice at its core TaikOz blends tradition with the latest Australian and Japanese compositions.

THE GATHERING includes several new works and features a guest artist adding a new dimension to the group and raising its expressiveness and power. The powerful and thundering sounds of taiko drumming is counter-balanced with the beautiful, ethereal tones of the shakuhachi bamboo flute, the result is a synthesis of east and west, old and new.

“The Gathering ranges from the softest, most delicate melodies to powerful, explosive rhythms,” said Ian Cleworth, Artistic Director of TaikOz. “Our concerts combine the thunderous sound of the Japanese taiko drums with Riley Lee’s haunting bamboo shakuhachi flute, beautiful songs, and dancing that is sometimes refined and graceful, and other times really high energy and virtuosic.”

TaikOz is Australia's most energetic and exciting taiko drumming group and includes Riley Lee, grand master of shakuhachi (bamboo flute), and guest percussionist Timothy Constable from Synergy Percussion. They perform both traditional routines and contemporary pieces composed by members of the group as well as other compositions. Their concerts feature a virtual orchestra of taiko instruments-over 20 in all, including a 250kg Odaiko.

Ian Cleworth, assisted by Riley Lee founded TaikOz in 1997. They continue to be co-artistic directors of the group. Since its formation, the ensemble has attracted devoted audiences across the country and around the world. While observing ancient practices, the Japanese artform of taiko is given a uniquely Australian interpretation with muscular choreography, hypnotic compositions and delicate musicality.
‘Bold and original….a uniquely Australian approach to Japanese traditional music’-The Sydney Morning Herald.

TAIKOZ - THE GATHERING
VENUE: Riverside Theatre, Corner Church and Market Streets, Parramatta
DATE & TIME: Saturday 18 October at 7.30pm
SINGLE TICKET PRICE: Adults $39, Concession $35, 30 & Under $31
Big Noter Prices: Adults $35, Concession $31, 30 & Under $27
BOOKINGS: Riverside Box Office 02 8839 3399 or www.riversideparramatta.com.au

Official Website: http://www.riversideparramatta.com.au