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RepertoireFudoFudo reflects the spirit of Fudonyorai, the deity of immovable faith (also known as Acela Ceta). Fudonyorai has strong, striking eyes and a fierce expression, but his inner nature is one of gentleness and compassion. His unyielding gaze represents unyielding faith and conviction. Fudonyorai gives people the willpower to continue to their success in life. Composed by Etsuo Hongo, 2003 Nami After observing Hachijo Daiko by Sensei Asanuma, Etsuo Hongo was inspired to create Nami, or "ocean waves". This piece was written for Koshin to perform at the Los Angeles Taiko Festival IX, its debut performance. Composed by Etsuo Hongo, 2001 Hasso This piece was written for Koshin to perform at the Los Angeles Taiko Festival VIII, its debut performance. Using four pairs of drums for eight primary performers, it incorporates varied tempos and complicated movements, making this one of their most exciting pieces to date. Composed by Etsuo Hongo, 2000 Shugo Shugo means "togetherness...a gathering." This piece was composed especially for Koshin Taiko, as the Koshin members performing today represent a new generation of taiko players for this group. When the taiko is played, the beating of the drums captures people's attention, bringing them together to watch and hear the taiko movements and sounds. Playing and practicing this piece has brought Koshin Taiko together as a group...every member feeling and experiencing the same goal of becoming one. Composed by Etsuo Hongo, 1997 Aoyagi This piece was composed for the Los Angeles Nisei Week festival in 1996. It is particulary notable for its strong central syncopated rhythm and counter rhythms. Composed by Etsuo Hongo, 1996 Ran This fast-paced composition was created for a performance at the first L.A. Marathon. Its driving, upbeat rhythm evokes the image of the runners making their way through the streets of the city. The beating of the Taiko crescendos to an explosive sound, its energy transmitted to the runners to help them on their journey. Composed by Etsuo Hongo, 1993 Utage In feudal days, when a Lord Chief of a town would throw a party, he would have dancing girls, music, singing and lots of food and sake. The essence of this festive atmosphere is called Utage. This piece was composed in honor of the marriage of one of the members of the group in 1992. Composed by Etsuo Hongo, 1992 Niwaka Niwaka, literally translated as "sudden" or "spontaneous", debuted at the first LA Taiko Festival in 1983. Utilizing woodwind and metallic implements, this piece focuses on dramatic rhythm shifts with call and response relationships between drums. With its thundering beat and rousing excitement, Niwaka expresses a sudden outburst of emotion. Composed by Etsuo Hongo, 1983 Hayashi (Kien Bayashi) Kien means "burning heart." A strong, driving beat is the basis of this number, which is performed on auspicious occasions. This piece was created in 1979 and has been performed by various taiko groups throughout the United States, from Los Angeles to Seattle, Florida, Hawaii and as far away as Japan. Composed by Etsuo Hongo, 1979 Haru Ichiban Haru Ichiban means the first winds or the beginning of spring. In Los Angeles the changing of seasons are undistinguishable. However, in Japan, the four seasons are very distinct, and because the winters are so harsh, Spring is a time the Japanese people patiently and eagerly look forward to. This was made as a practice piece for Koshin to help with basic drills and rhythms. Composed by Etsuo Hongo, 19-- Suwako Bayashi, Isamigoma, Hiryu Sandan Gaeshi These three songs are all traditional taiko pieces that are played across Japan. They are simple traditional rhythms similar to those found in various bon dances that indicate a specific region but grow to mean much more. Koshin performs these three pieces together as "Trio," arranged as such by Hongo Sensei. Traditional, arranged by Etsuo Hongo |
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