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 that has been active since 1988 in Iizuna town, Nagano, situated in the Kamiminochi district. The group is composed of approximately 20 members ranging in age from their 20s to their 70s.
We actively participate in performance activities, presenting a diverse repertoire that encompasses original compositions with lively rhythms, pieces featuring the Shinobue (bamboo flute), and historic tunes.
At Iizuna Gongen Daiko, we aim to foster a dynamic and inclusive atmosphere, ensuring that the audience experiences a delightful and entertaining performance.
Iizuna Saburo Tengu
We are actively involved in promoting the "Iizuna Saburo Tengu" in our community. The name "Iizuna Gongen" from Iizuna Gongen Daiko is derived from the legendary "Iizuna Saburo Tengu," said to reside on Mount Iizuna.
In our efforts to preserve local culture, we engage in activities to spread cheer with the theme "Bring Energy with the Local Hero, Iizuna Saburo Tengu, through Taiko Drumming." These activities include creating taiko drum compositions inspired by Iizuna Saburo Tengu, producing videos, and presenting kamishibai (paper plays). Additionally, we organize events and workshops to further share the cultural richness of our community.
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Taiko Instructor:
Haruna Komatsu
A taiko drummer and composer, also a clarinetist and multi-instrumentalist.
Originally from Iizuna town, she 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 taiko drummer Jyo Hirota, a resident of the UK, performing not only within 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 currently instructing at Iizuna Gongen Daiko. Alongside her musical pursuits, she also works as an interpreter and guide for foreign visitors to Japan.
Performance Requests
We are flexible with schedules and group sizes according to your preferences. Additionally, we offer interactive workshops, including taiko drumming experiences. Combining performances with workshops is also possible!
Previous Performance Examples:
・Corporate Events
・Weddings
・Local Festivals
・Events for Children at Kindergartens and Daycare Centers
・Events at Welfare Facilities
・Music Festivals
★ Workshop + Performance to Learn about Iizuna Saburo Tengu
・Kamishibai (Paper Play) about Iizuna Saburo Tengu
・Taiko Drumming Experience
・Joint performance of the original piece 'Golden Wings, Saburo Tengu'
・Performances by our members
Please feel free to reach out to us with any requests or questions!
Recruiting New Members
We are currently recruiting new members! Even if you have no prior experience with taiko drumming, you can start playing on stage with our beginner-friendly tunes. We welcome individuals of all levels of experience, so please feel free to contact us. Many of our members live outside Iizuna town as well."