31 July 2006
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| The energy of Japanese percussion ensemble TaikOz is set to rock the Alexander Theatre. |
The roar of ancient thunder will be heard at the Alexander Theatre next week when Australian musical ensemble TaikOz plays three shows over 8-9 August.
Blending traditional Japanese taiko drum rhythms with modern compositions, the group enjoyed a sell-out season during their last run at the theatre in 2004.
For this performance, titled in Daha ... Pounding Wave, TaikOz will join forces with soloist Riley Lee, Australia's only grand master of the bamboo shakuhachi -- a woodwind instrument with haunting tones.
Mr Lee became the first non-Japanese person to attain the rank of grand master in the shakuhachi tradition in 1980, and performed on the roof of the Sydney Opera House, as one of only four featured soloists, in Australia's contribution to the globally broadcast Millennium Dawn performances.
Monash University Arts Centres Director Ms Jan Clancy said in Daha would be a unique experience for audiences.
"The sheer power and energy of a TaikOz performance is awesome. Their music is an entrancing blend of East and West, old and new," Ms Clancy said.
"They are also truly world-class. They've played in Japan with some of that country's finest, as well as in China and Thailand and all over Australia, including at the WOMAdelaide festival."
What:
in Daha ... Pounding Wave performed by TaikOz, with guest Riley Lee
When: Tuesday 8 August at 8 pm, and Wednesday 9 August at 1.30 pm and 8 pm.
Where: Alexander Theatre, Monash University, Wellington Rd, Clayton
Bookings: Monash Box Office on +61 3 9905 1111 or boxoffice@adm.monash.edu.au
For further information and images, contact Ms Wendy West on +61 3 9905 1683 or Ms Sharon Lee on 9905 9919.
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