We were lucky to catch up with Ben Miller recently and have shared our conversation below.
Ben, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?
Seeing my first Fushu Daiko taiko drumming performance was an inspiration. I had already been a life long drummer and lover of martial arts and now I was seeing them together in synergy. My curiosity and passion for taiko has brought me on a 25 year journey so far. If anything might have sped up my learning process it might have been by slowing down and sinking deeper into each new understanding, technique and movement as I acquired them, The most essential skills have been listening, feeling and staying connected with the other drummers. Life and chaos have thrown obstacles in the way of my learning but my commitment and passion keep me going.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
Fushu Daiko is a North American Taiko Drumming group in Southeast Florida. We were started by a Japanese woman and her American husband in 1990. Yoshiko & Charles Cane formed this group to be a spirited voice of joy and determination in our community. We are committed to keep this beautiful tradition alive and thriving. Currently I am the Executive Director of our 501(c)3 Non-profit after being the Artistic Director the prior ten years and a Principle Artist in the group since 1998. Fushu Daiko (Japan Arts Inc) educates and enriches the South Florida community by presenting traditional Japanese performing arts in a modern and innovative form that is unique to South Florida – reflecting the multicultural make-up of our ensemble and the South Florida culture in which live. In performances, classes, workshops, and community outreach programs, we promote healthy individuals and connected communities through the energetic experience of taiko drumming. Our performance is known to be an joyfully charged and exciting show of pounding rhythmic synchronization. Our clients are constantly impressed by our flexibility and ability to bring intense energy to their important events. Students of our South Florida Taiko Dojo enjoy a multitude of taiko instruments and experienced instructors to learn with. Practicing taiko can be a healthy and life affirming discipline.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
The goal that drives my creative journey is to strengthen the community and heal the individual through taiko drumming. This art form, when played with a particular intent, has the power to deeply affect the artists and the audiences alike.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist and creative is the continual opportunity to reinvent yourself. Seeking mastery in movement and rhythm is a life long pursuit.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.fushudaiko.org
- Instagram: @fushudaiko
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fushudaiko
- Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/ben-miller-4b435629
- Twitter: @fushudaiko
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/fushudaiko
Image Credits
Japan Arts Inc dba Fushu Daiko