Nagata Shachu: Pre-eminent taiko group present 14th annual show November 10, 2012

In elevating tribute to traditional Japanese labourers, Toronto’s pre-eminent taiko (drum) and music group present ‘Work Songs’: 14th annual live show at Enwave Theatre, Harbourfront Centre, Toronto on November 10 and 11, 2012.
Toronto’s premier Japanese taiko and music group ‘Nagata Shachu’ present their 14th annual live production called ‘Work Songs’. Through an array of taiko drums, flutes, shamisen, voice, movement and colourful costumes, Nagata Shachu will premiere new heart-pounding compositions, which pay tribute to the traditional labourers, farmers, fishermen, woodcutters and carpenters of Japan.
WHERE: Enwave Theatre, Harbourfront Centre, Toronto (231 Queen’s Quay West).
WHEN: Two dates; Saturday, November 10 at 8:00 p.m., and Sunday, November 11 at 2:00 p.m.
HOW MUCH: Advance tickets are $25.00-$35.00 (adults) and $20.00 (seniors/students) and are now available from the Harbourfront box office; online at http://tickets.harbourfrontcentre.com, or by phone at 416-973-4000.
QUOTE: Noted taiko soloist and artistic director Kiyoshi Nagata explains this year’s theme, “In Japan there is a saying, ‘Where there is work, there is song.’ Such songs, often cheerful and uplifting, were used to help pass the time of day as well as to coordinate the efforts of a group of workers.”
The cast of performers in the 2012 production are Kiyoshi Nagata, Aki Takahashi, Scott Kusano, Akemi Akachi, Tony Nguyen and Heidi Chan.
Combining thunderous, primal drumbeats with subtle, intricate rhythms, the group produces a wide spectrum of sound. Featuring many Japanese taiko (including the massive O-Daiko), gongs, bells, wooden clappers, shakers, bamboo flutes and voice, ‘Nagata Shachu’ is renowned for physically demanding and visually mesmerizing performances, a diverse repertoire and the highest levels of musicianship and discipline.
Currently, Nagata Shachu is preparing for the release of their sixth studio album in early 2013 and has toured extensively this summer, with dates throughout Michigan in the USA, and Ontario, Canada. The group has previously released five CD’s of original music, and two DVD’s; ‘Nagata Shachu 10th Anniversary Concert’ (released in 2009) and ‘Iroha’ (released in 2011).
For more information, visit; www.nagatashachu.com, or http://www.youtube.com/nagatashachu.
Media Quotes:
“Nagata Shachu primal drum concert, an unforgettable experience.” – Ken Keaton, Palm Beach Daily News.
“It's another credit to this cosmopolitan city that one of the world's most interesting Japanese taiko drumming ensembles hails from Toronto.” – John Terauds, Toronto Star.
“...Nagata's tremendous passion and discipline constantly manifests itself in mesmerizing performances.” – Errol Nazareth, Toronto Sun.
“...traditional Kodo discipline best displayed in Nagata's hypnotic solo piece and an apocalyptic show closer.” – Matt Galloway, NOW Magazine.
“Nagata can carry off both the technique and showmanship needed to make the taiko drums sing.” – Paula Citron, Globe and Mail.
Since forming in 1998 and while rooted in the folk drumming traditions of Japan, Nagata Shachu's principal aim is to rejuvenate this ancient art form by producing innovative and exciting music (through concerts and workshops) that speaks to today’s audience and creates a new voice for the Taiko. Taking its name from founder Kiyoshi Nagata (whose career spans 30 years) and ‘shachu’ (old term for a performing troupe), Nagata Shachu has toured throughout Canada, the USA and Italy.

Official Website: http://www.nagatashachu.com