Japanese drummers in Tashkent

January 25, 2010

Tashkent`s Alisher Navoi Theater and State Conservatory of Uzbekistan hosted, on January 23 and 24 respectively, concerts of Himiko group of Japanese drummers. The events were organized in commemoration of the Year of Cooperation between Japan and Central Asia 2009 by the Japanese Embassy in Uzbekistan, the Forum of Culture and Arts of Uzbekistan Foundation, Office K2 Japanese company, the Ministry of Cultural and Sports Affairs of Uzbekistan, Uzbekistan Airways, Alisher Navoi Theater and the State Conservatory of Uzbekistan.

The concert presented the Uzbek audience with new sounds of percussion instruments that combined the might and manliness of Japanese drums with female grace and glitter.

The group composed of women started its activities in February 1985 and was titled Himiko Japanese Women`s Drums. Later the group was renamed Himiko. The group loaned its name from a mysterious empress Himiko who ruled the country of Yamataikoku in ancient Japan. Yamataikoku is believed to have been created through a fusion of the power and manliness of Japanese drums with female grace and beauty. The group performs extensively in Japan and has won acclaim abroad.

Also, on January 26 the Conservatory of Uzbekistan is expected to host a master class for students and all those who want to become closer of the art of Japanese drums. The entrance to the concerts and master class is free of charge.