The Junior Rank Demonstration Team See the Taikoza Perform November 13, 2001 The Junior Rank Demonstration team members were asked to perform for the Remsen Elementary School in conjunction with a special program the school was having on the Japanese culture. On Tuesday, November 13th the team members were guests at the Ilion High school to hear the Taikoza Japanese Drum Ensemble. Taikoza uses the powerful rhythms of taiko drums to create an electrifying energy drawn from Japan's rich musical and performance tradition. The barrell-shaped taiko drums come in an assortment of sizes and are esteemed for their ability to recreate the sound of rolling thunder. Taikoza uses drums that are up to three feet in diameter, weighing up to 180 pounds. In addition to drums, Taikoza incorporates the shakuhachi and fue, both bamboo flutes, the koto, a thirteen-stringed instrument, and examples of traditional Japanese dance to complete the group's unique presentation. The team members that were able to see this performance were (Left to Right)Dan Boak, Ian Ramsey, Susanne Turner and Nicole Stanulevich. In front of them is one of the large drums used in the performance by the Taikoza ensemble. A special thanks to Mrs. Connie Chuff one of the schools teachers who made the arrangements for us to see this performance and to perform ourselves on November 15, 2001 at the Remington Elementary School.