The Berkeley Carroll Athletic Center shook with booming rhythm in celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month as they welcomed special guests OMNY Taiko, a vibrant New York City community drumming group dedicated to sharing the ancient art of taiko drumming with people across the five boroughs.

The celebration began as students took turns sharing some of their favorite things about their own Asian culture and heritage, the foods that fill their family tables, the holidays they look forward to all year, the traditions passed down through generations, and the family moments that make those traditions come alive.

The young BC learners, some happily wearing noise-dampening headphones, were then introduced to the instruments themselves, learning the names of the different drums, what they are made of, the craftsmanship behind them, as well as the myth of their origin.

According to Shinto tradition, Amaterasu, the Japanese Sun Goddess, retreated into a heavenly rock cave and plunged the world into darkness. But it was music that would restore the light, as Ame-no-Uzume, Goddess of the dawn, mirth, and the arts, overturned a hollow wooden barrel and stomped upon it, creating the very first taiko beats. The sound was so powerful that it vibrated through the cave walls and drew Amaterasu back into the world and returned light to all of creation. 

The students drummed on their knees, stomped their feet, and called out as the music played, reflecting the story’s message of joy, community, and renewal. It was a morning of culture, stories, and joyful thunder. Thank you to our special guests OMNY Taiko for the lessons and the morning energy boost.

View the AAPI Assembly Photo Gallery Here