Formed in 1997 by taiko player Ian Cleworth and shakuhachi dai-shihan Riley Lee, TaikOz is one of Australia's most energetic and exciting drumming groups. Combining the awesome power of the taiko drums with the ethereal tones of the shakuhachi, TaikOz seeks to explore a synthesis of East and West, old and new. With repertoire ranging from the frenetic energy of the traditional "Yataibayashi" to the tightly coiled intensity of Maki Ishii's avant-garde compositions and pieces by Australian composers, TaikOz draws from ancient traditions whilst looking to the future. The Sydney Morning Herald called them "bold and original...a uniquely Australian approach to Japanese traditional music," while Brisbane's Courier Mail said TaikOz achieves "a truly stunning level of physical virtuosity." Although the group's most public expression is through its extremely physical and dynamic performances, TaikOz also runs community workshops, holds regular classes in Wadaiko practice and performs for students of all ages.