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Rehearsal went well today with the Southern Oregon University percussion ensemble. I’ll be collaborating with the ensemble on Tuesday November 29th 7:30PM at the SOU Recital Hall. Amongst other pieces, we’ll perform composer Maki Ishii’s “Monochrome” made famous by Taiko groups Ondekoza and Kodo. If you’re in the area please stop by. Admission is only $5.00.

Here’s some footage of my recent collaboration with Phoenix Sigalove last Friday evening at the Tatanka benefit concert. Here’s the link below:

Last Saturday I led a follow up to an introduction to Taiko workshop. Things are going well and I’ll be meeting with some excited Taiko students one more time this month before heading down to Los Angeles for more On Ensemble work.

The Meidoko Green Show is tomorrow evening at 7:15 on 15 South Pioneer St. here in Ashland, Oregon. I’m really excited about the music we’re presenting and to be taking on so many challenges with using taiko in such an unconventional manner. At the same time, even though I find this presentation to pretty challenging, the artists that I’ve been collaborating with have made it easier and a joyous process. For they are awesome musicians and people, and very much a pleasure to work with.

We’ve moved into the shop at the Japan America Theater! I’m really excited about our upcoming year there. It’s quite a bit more space than we’re used to and it’s a treat to be in Little Tokyo and in constant contact with the JACCC.

Patrick arrived on Thursday evening and we spent Friday recuperating from our respective crazy schedules. We took a hike at Vasquez Rocks, had a picnic, and went to Griffith Observatory; a rare moment of down time for On Ensemble with Patrick in tow. We’re looking forward to a week of rehearsals with Kelvin set to arrive. More fun to come!

Patrick and Maz at the peak

On 1/11/11 my wife Rosie successfully gave birth to Ruby Ellen Underwood. She was born at our home. The plan was to have her in a birthing tub, but before the tub was full she decided to come out in our living room. She weighed 6lbs. 8oz. and is totally healthy. I’m so glad that everything went well, especially since I was away on the road with On Ensemble at the time she was born. I was able to see her, Rosie and Blaise on Skype shortly after she was born. I’m really looking forward to getting back home.

Hiya Dan and Maryll! Here is a recording of that tricky rhythm from Engine Room. I hope it’s helpful. Good luck with your arrangement!

LeDevoir.com interviewed Patrick for a preview of our upcoming collaboration! The original is in French and an automatic English translation is here.

Looking forward to the collaboration, Patrick!