As many of you may know the taiko piece, "Hiryu Sandan Gaeshi",
written by Grandmaster Daihachi Oguchi is one of the most well-known
and commonly practiced and performed taiko pieces among every level of groups,
particularily in North America.
Not only is it a piece which is semi-open-source (free to learn, rehearse and perform not-for-remuneration),
but it is also the theme piece of the Japan Taiko Foundation and possibly the most well-known taiko piece
around the world.
The Hiryu Project was created by two students of Grandmaster Daihachi Oguchi.
who were moved, not only by their opportunity to learn from and perform with him
but also from his approach to taiko as a true pioneer of the artform.
On June 27th, the day of Oguchi-sensei's passing, we invite taiko groups around the world
to perform this piece, whether in rehearsal or performance in any place.
Not only in celebration of his life and his commitment to spreading taiko around the world,
but also in the spirit of taiko, to communicate and share together through playing taiko.
If you don't know the piece, "Hiryu Sandan Gaeshi", here is a video link and embedded video
from which you are welcome to learn and play the piece: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sNaVWB61-Ts
Also, there is a similar version arranged in the Ohayashi backbeat style by Grandmaster Seiichi Tanaka,
who was Oguchi-sensei's student before moving to the United States.
This style is most popular around North America. Any style is welcome.
Although, please contact San Francisco Taiko Dojo for any details regarding permissions.
It will be inspiring for Osuwa Daiko to see how "Hiryu Sandan Gaeshi" has spread around the world.
We wish you to have fun and support this project, not with money,
but with your love and intensity for this wonderful performing art that has become wadaiko.
**Please note, participation in this project does not automatically grant permission
to perform this piece in any performance where there is any remuneration.
For such permission, please contact Osuwa Daiko or Grandmaster Seiichi Tanaka.
***This project and all details were created in 2011 with full permission and consent of Osuwa Daiko and Osuwa Daiko Preservation Society***
