not just a Taiko concert…

You might remember Tsuchigumo Daiko’s first concert in 2019, when they played at the Orkney Theatre together with Hadhirgaan and the haunting notes of the shakuhachi bamboo flute also filled the air …

And then there was the concert that didn’t happen in November 2023. We were all set but because of weather affecting sailings three days in a row, we unfortunately had to cancel at the last minute.

However, thanks to everyone’s help, we have been able to reschedule, and are delighted to announce that Taiko workshops and concert are back on at the Orkney Theatre.

This time, eight members of Tsuchigumo Daiko will be joined by drummers from the Kirkwall City Pipe Band and Jeff Moore and his fiddle. The musicians have been working together to create something unique – bringing their instruments together in conversation, blending Orkney sounds with Japanese beats (and a touch of Glasgow as well).  Definitely not to be missed.

But that is just half the story – the two days of workshops and concert are all part of the Taiko Drums for Orkney project, which aims to offer the Orkney community another string to its musical bow, together with the wellbeing benefits that being part of a group and banging a big drum together bring to all. You can read more about the project here.

This time, Martin Doyle and Shonagh Walker, who have been leading Taiko workshops in Orkney since the start, will arrive on Thursday the 21^st and most of their Friday will be taken up with free workshops for schools and community groups, with a final workshop in the afternoon open to the general public.  There will be two more workshops for everyone on Saturday morning then Martin, Shonagh and the other six Tsuchigumo Daiko members will prepare the stage and everyone will get ready for curtain up at 7:00pm ahead of what will be a rousing and exhilarating performance.

There will be a raffle at the door featuring lots of great prizes donated by generous Orkney businesses and individuals – further details to follow.

Any workshop participant who books an adult concert ticket is also entitled to a £5 discount on the regular price of £10.  Please choose that option at checkout if applicable.

Workshop – 22 March, 5:30pm – https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/850377049647?aff=oddtdtcreator

Workshop – 23 March, 10:00am – https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/850381543087?aff=oddtdtcreator

Workshop – 23 March, 11:15am – SOLD OUT

Concert – 23 March, 7:00pm – https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/850386277247?aff=oddtdtcreator

These events are presented by OJA in collaboration with the Consulate General of Japan in Edinburgh as part of the Taiko Drums for Orkney project, with huge thanks to NorthLink Ferries and other Orkney businesses for generous support.