Drum beats of Japan

A variety of drums regaled the audience

The House of Haguruma, takes care of juveniles who are guilty of delinquencies such as domestic violence, resulting from parental pressure or lack of self confidence. The aim of the house is 'to provide a place to live for every juvenile and to teach them self respect and affirmation.'

In pursuance of this objective, the House of Haguruma teaches the art of playing the drums. At a recent drum concert in Dhaka the members of the Haguruma gave a swirling performance. The function was held at the Osmani Memorial Hall. The Embassy of Japan in Bangladesh and Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy jointly organised the concert with the co-operation of the renowned Japanese NGO, the International Angel Association. Matsushiro Horiguchi, Ambassador of Japan to Bangladesh and Ahmad Nazir, Director General of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, inaugurated the concert. The 'mother' of the House, Kayoko Sakaoka, delighted the audience with her elegant presence.

Straight after the inauguration, the whole auditorium echoed with the beats of a variety of drums. The drummers regaled the audience with their performance of titles such as Illusion, Spring thunder, Soaring, Dawn after the days of fighting, The Pleiade, Playing drum in dancing, Flight and Raging torrent.

The piece Illusion depicted a prayer. The Pleiade is a tiny glittery star which shows how --no matter how small--we can light up the world with our noble deeds.

Spring thunder was performed to a spellbound audience which enthusiastically clapped along with the performers.

The most interesting part was the performance of the three 'instant drummers' from the audience. Under the guidance of the team leader Koizumi, their performance created ripples. The Japanese drummers sought to greet the local audience with Assalamu Alaikum and Dhanyabad-- a charming add on to the evening.

Raging torrent the last piece-- exemplified how one could stand firm and gain final victory in the test of life despite a raging torrent.