The Embassy of Japan, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), JICA Alumni Association of Pakistan and the Islamabad Japanese School in collaboration with the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) organized a musical performance on Japanese traditional drums (wadaiko) and dancing at the National Art Gallery (NAG) on Saturday to mark the celebrations of the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Japan. About twelve school children between the ages of 9 to 15 years performed a lively set of traditional dance and a drum beat ensemble. The energetic and rhythmic dance with wadaiko drumming by the students of the Japanese school enthralled the audience. The purpose of the event was to showcase traditional Japanese music and dances to the Pakistani people. It was a dynamic, thunderous and powerful performance, with the sound of the drums resonating in the souls of both the performers and listeners alike. Wadaiko is the Japanese name for the act of drumming in a traditional Japanese style and is also used to refer to the traditional drums.
The name comes from the Japanese words “Wa” meaning “Japanese”, and “Taiko” meaning “drum”. In modern Japan, wadaiko had become more of a performance art which was usually seen at festivals or in concerts.
The amateur performers showcased a folk tradition of Japan by exemplifying their dedication and discipline in mastering a complex choreography. This musical performance provided an opportunity for the Pakistani people to discover the Japanese culture and traditions through the performance of their little Japanese friends.
Traditional Japanese musical performance at NAG enthrals audience
