San Jose Taiko will take the stage at California State University, Monterey Bay’s World Theater on March 7. Showtime is 8 p.m.

The word taiko is Japanese for drum, and the art of drumming has been a staple of Japanese culture for centuries.

The group was formed in 1973 by young Asian Americans who were searching for an outlet to convey their experiences as sansei or third-generation Japanese Americans. Looking to Japan for inspiration, they were drawn to the empowering sounds of the taiko, an instrument that embodies the spiritual essence and heartbeat of Japan.

By studying with masters of other traditions and cultures, San Jose Taiko musicians have broadened and embellished this traditional art form. Their style joins the traditional rhythms of Japanese drumming with the beat of world rhythms, including African, Brazilian, Filipino, Latin and jazz. The sound is contemporary, exciting and innovative, bridging many styles while still resonant of the Asian soul in America.

Tickets range from $10 to $40 and can be purchased by calling the World Theater box office at (831) 582-4580 or online at csumb.edu/worldtheater. For disability-related accommodations, please contact the World Theater box office no later than 10 days prior to theperformance.

The World Theater is located on Sixth Avenue near A Street on the CSUMB campus. Driving directions and a campusmap are available at csumb.edu/maps.