On Friday, March 22nd, at 6pm the Tri-College Asian American Studies program and the Swarthmore Music and Dance Department will present Finding Her Beat. The event will begin with a short taiko performance by Swarthmore’s own Taiko Ensemble and  artists from the film in the Troy Dance Studio, followed by a screening of the documentary, Finding Her Beat, in the LPAC Cinema. The event will conclude with a Q&A with executive producer and taiko artist Jennifer Weir, of Taiko Arts Midwest and featured taiko artist Tiffany Tamarbuchi.

Taiko is a form of ensemble drumming also known as kumidaiko in Japanese. It is a neo-traditional practice with lineages in Japanese classical and folk traditions as well as influences from American Jazz music and martial arts. This form of drumming emerged in post-WWII Japan and since then has spread all over the world.

Finding Her Beat documents the days preceding an historic taiko performance in St. Paul, Minnesota in March 2020, centering around women and non-binary artists. The film traces the processes and preparations leading up to the performance, and profiles the artists involved. It offers a glimpse into their experiences in the U.S., Canada, and Japan as gender minorities in taiko and the obstacles they have encountered. The film brings visibility to the diverse experiences and identities of Asian and Asian American artists.

Swarthmore College encourages persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact the event sponsor, or Susan Smythe, ADA Program Manager at 610-690-2063 or ssmythe1@swarthmore.edu in advance of your participation or visit.