DYNAMIC Weymouth drumming group, Taiko Evolution, are beating their drums louder than ever as they get ready to perform at the opening concert for the National Taiko Festival being held this June in Rickmansworth Herts.

After getting Weymouth Music Festival off to a spectacular and rousing start in March with their first public performance, this lively community group has been asked to perform at the prestigious national festival. The concert will also feature world-famous percussionist Joji Hirota and the Taiko Drummers.

"This is the biggest Taiko drumming event in the UK, possibly in Europe, so it's a great honour for us to be asked to perform and a real focus for our playing over the next couple of months," said Ian Bennett, the group's instructor.

Originating in Japan, taiko-style drumming uses big drums and big sticks combined with choreographed movements and exuberant shouts to create a stunning display of rhythm and movement.

"A taiko performance is uplifting to watch but it's even more exhilarating to have a go at yourself," added Ian. "Our current drummers all started last year after attending one of our beginners workshops which attracted people from 15 to over 70 years of age.

"The response was enormous but it's not surprising, since anyone can learn to play within a taiko team quite quickly. It builds confidence and self-esteem and it's really energising and fun."

Class sizes are strictly limited which means that players receive individual attention and progress and develop the necessary team spirit very quickly.

Although current classes are for adults, Ian will be starting classes for a brand-new youth group this September, as well as a new adult beginners course.

He said: "There has been a lot of interest from youngsters so we have decided to hold regular classes and create a new youth group for this area.

"It will be open to anyone between 10 and 17 years of age and will be the only group of its kind in Dorset."

Taster workshops for both the new adult and youth beginners classes are being held in Weymouth on Saturday, June 7.

No previous drumming experience is necessary. Demand is expected to be high so if you would like an application form please telephone Ian or Dawn on 01305 834776 or email info@taikodrumming.co.uk