Although "taiko" means "big drum" in Japanese, the word has come to symbolize the art of Japanese-style ensemble drumming throughout the world. The drums have been around for many centuries, though this young art form began with jazz drummer Daihachi Oguchi in post-WWII Japan. Since then, the United States has become a "second home" to Taiko, with over 150 groups practicing here. Taiko is an art which requires a unity of mind and body, and it is the spirit of the players and their choreographed physical movements which make Taiko much more than beating on drums. Davidson River Taiko was formed in 2005, with the help of the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, the Transylvania County Arts Council, Remo Inc., and Transylvania County Schools. For our students Taiko is a stress release, a cultural revelation, a community connector and a creative savior in a sense.  Art in education is vital to creating globally aware students and DRT is an incredible avenue that provides this.  We hope that you will continue to support this rare experience for the students of Davidson River School and Transylvania County.