Learn Bon Daiko – Aizu Bandaisan

If you want to learn Bon Daiko, Aizu Bandaisan is a great song. Aizu Bandaisan sings the praises of Mount Bandai, a mountain located in Fukushima Prefecture. The song is considered one of the “Big Three” Minyo folk songs, along with Gujo Odori and Awa Odori.

The modern day version of Aizu Bandaisan has multiple roots. These include the local folk song Genjo Bushi, and Gokahama Jinku from neighboring Niigata Prefecture.

The lyrics begin with the line “Mount Bandai is a mountain of treasure. Gold grows on the bamboo trees.” One theory is that the bamboo trees of Mount Bandai produced fruit during a famine, saving the local population from starvation. Another theory is that the lyrics refer more figuratively to the plentiful rice grown in the area.

Learn Bon Daiko - Aizu Bandaisan

Aizu Bandaisan Lyrics

Mount Bandai is a mountain of treasure
Gold grows on the bamboo trees

From the mountain of the east
Comes the daily news
I cannot possibly avoid going

Why did Shosuke Ohara damage his health?
He loved to sleep, drink, and bathe in the morning
Of course he did, he deserves it

The loyal cherry blossoms
Fall to the name of Byakko Tai

The singing makes the dance stronger
The taiko on top of the yagura also becomes stronger

Learn Bon Daiko at Los Angeles Taiko Institute

I teach Bon Daiko every Friday night from 8-10PM at Los Angeles Taiko Institute in Torrance, CA. Please let me know when you would like to drop in!

Date and Time: Fridays from 8-10PM
Place: 20909 S Western Ave Torrance, CA 90501
Fees: $26 per session
Contact: isaku@taiko.la

Learn Taiko - Bon Daiko Lesson Series

Private Lessons and Skype Lessons

I also offer private lessons and online taiko lessons via Skype from my studio in San Pedro. Please let me know when you would like to schedule a lesson!

Place: 1300 S Beacon Street San Pedro, CA 90731
Fees: Private Lessons $60/hr, Skype lessons $40/hr
Contact: isaku@isakukageyama.com

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