What Does Your Solo Order Say About You?
Solos! Some people love them, some people hate them, but few would deny that they are an integral part of the kumidaiko skillset. Many modern taiko pieces feature a successive sequence of spectacular soloists, but does the order of these performers actually matter? We think it does.
First Solo:
You are dependable and reliable to those around you. People often look to you for guidance and inspiration, whether you realize it or not. Truly a natural leader.
The first soloist is probably the most important, as she is responsible for introducing the solo structure and tying it to the rest of the piece. The first solo may reference musical themes and motifs from the remainder of the piece. Most importantly, the first solo sets expectations for the remainder of the solo section, creating a foundation for the other soloists to build upon.
Second Solo:
You have a wonderful artistic sense. Though some might call you impulsive, you prefer the term “flexible.” Above all else, you bring a sense of harmony and belonging to those around you.
If the first solo is the brick, the second solo is the mortar. After the first solo, the second solo should feel artistically distinct, yet vaguely familiar. For example, a rhythm-heavy first solo should be contrasted with a flowing, “ma”-centric second. Your goal is to expand upon the themes introduced by the first solo, without feeling too repetitive.
Third Solo:
You are a creator and an innovator. You’re a bit of a rebel - nobody quite knows what to expect out of you - but you think outside of the box, and that’s awesome.
My decidedly non-scientific analysis reveals that solos start to get boring after the second solo. That’s why the third soloist needs to recapture the audience’s attention. The third solo could be quirky, unorthodox, or occasionally gimmicky, but pushes the envelope of the solo structure and will leave the audience interested in what comes next.
Fourth Solo:
You are a kind and generous person. Though you have a myriad of amazing talents at your disposal, you are best characterized by your humble, accommodating, and friendly nature.
The fourth solo has one of the toughest and most thankless jobs in the ensemble - making the last soloist look amazing. This doesn’t mean the fourth soloist lacks talent: a good fourth soloist needs to pump up the audience without overshadowing her successor. Speed things up, work the crowd, do something sick... but something that is just short of the solo to come.
Fifth Solo:
You are flashy and outgoing, and carry yourself with a great deal of natural charisma. You push limits and place a lot of pressure on yourself to succeed, but you always make quite a lasting impression.
The fifth soloist’s job is simple: to blow the audience away. It is important not to lose the momentum that your groupmates have worked hard to build. At the end of the day, your job is to capture the hearts of the audience and leave an impression that they’ll take with them. A daunting task indeed, but we know you can do it - you’re a superstar!
