U.S. Grains Council meeting attendees will take a break from solving agriculture’s export challenges for an exhilarating musical experience with a blend of rhythm, melody, and movement from Portland Taiko at the upcoming USGC 52nd Annual Board of Delegates Meeting.

Portland Taiko is an award-winning Asian American drumming ensemble that brings a unique, contemporary style to a traditional form of Japanese drumming. Taiko, the Japanese word for drum and the name of the art form, has roots in Japanese religious ceremonies, community festivals and theater. North America taiko ensembles came about in the late 1960s, established by Seiichi Tanaka and his group, San Francisco Taiko Dojo. As America was going through the civil rights movement, Asian Americans looked for a way to strengthen their community. Taiko became a powerful symbol of voice, particularly during the struggle for redress of the Japanese American internment.

Portland Taiko has been involved in the North American taiko scene since 1994, founded by a group of passionate community members eager to share and educate others about their heritage. Today, Portland Taiko performs for over 70,000 people a year spreading their artistry, educating and entertaining at performances across the country.

Click here to see a montage of Portland Taiko performances.

For more information or to register, click here.