Enjoy Traditional Japanese Taiko Percussion with Ease Roland’s “TAIKO-1”

Hi there, I’m Hakoboya, the Souvenir Promotion Captain for Kodawari Times! ╭(·ᴗ·)╮╰(·ᴗ·)╯
Roland is a world-renowned electronic instrument brand that Japan is proud of. Roland, known for electronic pianos and drum kits, has released a new, innovative electronic Japanese percussion that combines traditional Japanese instruments—specifically the taiko percussion —with cutting-edge technology. In this article, I’ll give you a full rundown of the appeal of the “TAIKO-1” electronic taiko percussion.

 

About Roland

Headquartered in Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture Japan, Roland Corporation is a world-renowned Japanese manufacturer of electronic musical instruments.
The company produces digital pianos, synthesizers, electronic drums, and guitar-related products. Since its founding in 1972, Roland has created numerous innovative products while pursuing new sounds through cutting-edge technology.

In particular, the TR-808 rhythm machine, released in the 1980s, is known as a revolutionary product that had a major influence on the birth of new music genres such as hip-hop and techno.
As a pioneer that fused music and technology and helped spread the digitization of music worldwide, Roland continues to develop innovative musical instruments to this day.

 

“TAIKO-1”: The Electronic Taiko Percussion That Captures the Spirit of Japan

Today, Roland is introducing the “TAIKO-1,” an innovative electronic taiko percussion.
It’s the world’s first electronic taiko percussion in the “katsugi-oke” style—a traditional Japanese percussion featuring a wooden barrel body and a leather-covered iron rim, which is played by slinging it over the shoulder with a strap—that reimagines the power and spirit of traditional Japanese taiko performing
through cutting-edge electronic technology.

The Japanese taiko percussion is a traditional instrument beloved by the Japanese people, used in traditional festivals across the country and in school education. While it is a captivating instrument that stirs the soul and body, it has traditionally been difficult for individuals to own due to its loud volume and heavy weight.

“TAIKO-1” was created by incorporating Roland’s technology and expertise, in collaboration with the world-renowned taiko performance group “Kodo,” as a new-concept instrument adapted to modern lifestyles.

▼Product Promotion Video

 

The Appeal of the Electronic Taiko Percussion

Dynamic sound and delicate expression

“TAIKO-1” Performance Concept

The Japanese taiko percussion is an instrument capable of producing a wide variety of sounds from a single drumhead—from the delicate tones at the edges to the resonant tones slightly off-center, and the powerful tones produced when struck directly at the center.
Thanks to a mechanism that changes its tone based on the force and position of the strike, “TAIKO-1” faithfully reproduces everything from the delicate nuances unique to the Japanese taiko percussion to its dynamic resonance.

Play a variety of Japanese percussions with a single instrument

An image of a nagado-daiko

In addition to the sounds of various Japanese percussions —such as the okedo, nagado, and o-daiko—it also features built-in sounds for clappers and vocal calls, allowing you to play the sounds of multiple instruments with a single unit. This is a benefit that only electronic instruments can offer.
As a result, a wide range of players—from beginners to professionals—can enjoy the freedom of expression it provides.

You can practice on your own anytime, anywhere

“TAIKO-1” Exploded View

The “TAIKO-1” features a special mesh head that makes it very quiet, so you can play at home without worrying about disturbing others. It also includes a metronome to help you develop a sense of tempo, as well as “ji-uchi” phrases—essential for practicing traditional Japanese taiko. You can even perform solos while playing these “ji-uchi” rhythms.

Furthermore, with Bluetooth connectivity and sound expansion features, you can play along with your favorite music or create new sounds, opening up new possibilities for musical expression depending on your ideas.
The unit can also be disassembled as shown in the photo, making it convenient to transport.

 

Experience Japanese culture the easy way

The powerful sound and rhythm of the Japanese taiko percussion —an indispensable part of festivals and prayer ceremonies—can be said to embody the very soul of Japan.
“TAIKO-1” isn’t just a digital version of the taiko percussion; it’s an instrument that reimagines the charm of this traditional Japanese art form using the latest technology.
Anyone can enjoy playing it easily, regardless of location or experience, so why not take one home as a souvenir from Japan?

Product Details

Product Name/Model Number: Electronic Taiko Percussion “TAIKO-1”
Price: Open price
Release Date: January 15, 2021
Dimensions: 430 (W) × 430 (D) × 521 (H) mm
Weight: 4.5 kg (main unit only)
Power Source: AC adapter (included) *or rechargeable nickel-metal hydride batteries (8 AA batteries)
*If purchased in Japan, the AC adapter will be the Japanese domestic specification.
Details Page: https://www.roland.com/global/products/taiko-1/

Retail Locations

Roland Store Tokyo

Address: 4-25-37 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 12:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Closed: Tuesdays
Phone: 050-1754-3808
Official Website: Roland Store Tokyo

Music stores nationwide
(*Please note that some stores may not carry this product, so please check in advance)

Official Global Website

https://www.roland.com/global/

Global Accounts

Facebook　＠RolandGlobalOfficial
Youtube　@rolandglobal
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Instagram　＠rolandglobal