Japanese big drum
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Japanese big drum |
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HISTORY It started as leather crafts for army The drum manufacturing in Ishikawa prefecture started in 1609, when Kaga's lord sent for Asano Saemon Goro and Jiroemon, the leather craftsmen from Harima. In those days, they manufactured not only drums but also leather goods for the army. However since Kaga did not want to provoke suspicion from Tokugawa for rebellion, the clan promoted art and cultural affairs, and the craftsmanship shifted from manufacturing army goods to making drums. Currently drums are used in entertainment, festivals and religious affairs. Before World War Two, the drums were used in place of siren. CHARACTERISTICS Manufactured a drum of 2 meters in diameter. Currently, there is only one drum manufacturer in Ishikawa Prefecture. They are Asano Drums and Musical Instrument Shop and are the direct descendants of Asano Saemon Goro and Jiroemon. Their drums are reputed for their traditional manner of manufacturing, the sound and the high degree of perfection. They manufacture 70% of large drums made in Japan with over 3-shaku, or 1 meter in diameter. They also manufacture naga-do drums and kaen drums. The largest drum in Japan, which is in the possession of Ookuni Tama Shrine is over 2 meters in diameter. This drum was also manufactured by Asano. |