You may have heard it at a community event. It begins with a distinctive rhythmic sound, as drum sticks clack together and strike the rim and head of large Japanese drums.
The cadence that slowly unfolds comes from Daikin’s Taiko Force, and what happens next is a unique blend of music, camaraderie, and infectious fun.
Taiko Force member Bonita Shelton says you can think of the sound as an invitation.
“The sound of the drum is like a calling to those around to come and join in the festivities. When playing with my other Taiko Force team members, it’s a powerful sound when all the beats are in sync. When we are preparing for an event, we try to think of ways to make the performance more intriguing and powerful as well,” Mrs. Shelton said.
The story of the drum team called Taiko Force begins in 1997, with a single drum and just two employees. The drum was donated by Daikin America’s parent company, Daikin Industries. The following year, the team grew to four team members and a coach and additional drums were sent from Osaka.
As word spread and the team grew, Taiko Force was invited to perform in regional cities like Memphis, Birmingham, and Huntsville at events like The World Games and the US/Japan Cherry Blossom Festival. In 2022, Taiko Drum Force performed before Gov. Kay Ivey during the annual JASA Dinner.
Amanda Wyrick says, “As soon as the clacking is heard and the beat is formed, my heart starts pounding. The energy knowing that you and your team are about to create such an amazing sound is unbelievable. You can hear the ‘Ohh’ and ‘Ahh’ and the clicking of the camera’s and you know they are amazed.”
Member Yarita Sanchez says playing together brings her closer together with her fellow Daikin team members. “About four years ago, I saw Taiko Force perform and I knew I would love to be a part of it! The team members were very welcoming and patient and I’ve been a part of the team since then.”
Tsubasa Ohki says if there is one thing he likes best about being a part of Taiko Force it’s “getting people who are unfamiliar with Japanese culture to be involved in Taiko Drum routines, whether they are beating the drum, or dancing.”
The dancing is a traditional Japanese bon-dance, in which any one of any age is invited to join the dance circle and feel the rhythm.
So, next time you’re at the Dragon Boat Race & Festival or another area event and you hear a rhythmic clacking, get ready to have some fun with Daikin’s own Taiko Force.
Here is Taiko Force in action at the Dragon Boat Race & Festival 2025
