MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Leonard Eto, one of the most accomplished and innovative contemporary players of taiko or Japanese percussion instruments, is taking his Taiko Beat: Leonard Eto Philippine Tour 2023 to the Shangri-La Plaza at the Grand Atrium on February 25 at 4:00 pm.
For his performance at Shang, Leonard will be performing with special guest Tusa Montes, a percussionist, ethnomusicologist, and educator who specializes in the music of the Philippines, Asia, West Africa, and Latin America. Presented by Japan Foundation Manila and supported by Japan Tobacco International and Japan Airlines, Taiko Beat: Leonard Eto Philippine Tour 2023 showcases the taiko legend’s distinct playing that’s marked by his fluidity and luminous, dance-like quality, often described as both powerful and effortless.
Leonard Eto’s tour stop is part of Shang’s Nihongo Fiesta that aims to celebrate the Japanese language and culture. Another activity lined up for the fest is the 50th Nihongo Speech Contest happening at the Red Carpet at the Shang on the same day at 1:00 pm. It’s where Filipino students and professionals demonstrate their Japanese linguistic skills by articulating their own original composition. It continues to attract high-caliber contestants from the country’s numerous language institutes, colleges and universities, and other organizations offering Japanese language courses.
Come and explore the beauty of the Japanese language and the powerful taiko beats of Leonard Eto #FortheLoveofArtAtTheShang.
