Iizuna Gongen Daiko / 飯綱権現太鼓
"Iizuna Gongen Daiko" is a Japanese Taiko group located in Iizuna town, Nagano.
About us
Iizuna Gongen Daiko is a traditional Japanese taiko drumming group based in Iizuna Town, Nagano, in the Kamiminochi district. Founded in 1988, the group consists of around 20 members, ranging in age from their 20s to their 70s.
We actively perform at a wide range of events, showcasing a diverse repertoire that includes original compositions with energetic rhythms, pieces featuring the shinobue (bamboo flute), and traditional tunes passed down through generations.
At Iizuna Gongen Daiko, we strive to create a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, ensuring every performance is exciting and engaging for our audience.
Performances and Taiko Drumming Workshops
We are excited to offer performances that include interactive taiko drumming workshops! These workshops provide a unique opportunity for participants to learn the fundamentals of taiko drumming and experience the vibrant energy of this traditional Japanese art form. Whether you are a beginner or have some experience, our workshops are designed to be engaging and fun for everyone.
We offer flexibility in schedules and group sizes to accommodate your needs. Our taiko drumming experiences can be combined with live performances, or we can also provide just a performance or just a workshop, depending on your preference.
We are happy to provide these services in both Japanese and English, ensuring that international guests can join in the fun as well.
Previous Performance Examples:
・Corporate Events
・Weddings
・Local Festivals
・Events for Children at Kindergartens and Daycare Centers
・Events at Welfare Facilities
・Music Festivals
・Hotel Performances
・Private Parties
Please feel free to reach out to us with any requests or questions!
Iizuna Gongen Daiko
Tel: 050-5475-0593
Email: iizunagongendaiko@gmail.com
Iizuna Saburo Tengu
We are actively promoting the legend of "Iizuna Saburo Tengu" in our community. The name "Iizuna Gongen" from Iizuna Gongen Daiko is inspired by the legendary "Iizuna Saburo Tengu," said to reside on Mount Iizuna. In Japanese folklore, Tengu are supernatural beings known as powerful guardians of mountains and forests.
As part of our efforts to preserve and share local culture, we bring energy to the community through taiko drumming. This includes composing original taiko pieces inspired by Iizuna Saburo Tengu, producing videos, and performing kamishibai (paper plays). We also organize events and workshops to share the rich cultural heritage of our area.
Through the legend of Iizuna Saburo Tengu and the power of taiko, we spread pride and vitality throughout the community.
Videos
Please add English subtitles to the following videos.
Taiko Instructor:
Haruna Komatsu
A taiko drummer and composer, also a clarinetist and multi-instrumentalist.
Originally from Iizuna town, Haruna Komatsu grew up there and lived in the United Kingdom (London) for 13 years from 2004 to 2017. Around 2008, she began her career as a clarinetist, specializing in jazz and world music performances. In 2012, she studied under renowned taiko drummer Jyo Hirota, a resident of the UK, performing not only in the UK but also in the Middle East and Europe. As a multi-instrumentalist, she played music for theatrical productions at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and participated in various band activities.
Having returned to her hometown of Iizuna town, she is now a taiko instructor at Iizuna Gongen Daiko. Alongside her musical pursuits, she also works as an interpreter and guide for foreign visitors to Japan.
Recruiting New Members
We are currently recruiting new members! Even if you have no prior experience with taiko drumming, you can start performing on stage with our beginner-friendly pieces. We welcome individuals of all experience levels, so feel free to contact us. Many of our members live outside Iizuna town as well.