Byron Au Yong | 歐陽良仁

songs of dislocation, music for a changing world
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Taiko 
With over 15 years of experience, Byron Au Yong has worked with the leading taiko (Japanese drum) performers in North America. His taiko compositions are recorded by On Ensemble (Dust and Sand) and Portland Taiko (Rhythms of Change). In addition, his work as music consultant and teacher grace the performances of TAIKOPROJECT as well as workshop offerings at the North American Taiko Conference.

Testimonials



"When we were looking to commission work from composers whom we felt would push our art form in new directions, Byron was an obvious choice. The work he composed for us, Two by Four has become a central part of our repertoire. I recommend Byron in the strongest language possible."
Shoji Kameda, On Ensemble

"Eternal appreciation for the work you did with Portland Taiko. You provided us with the much-needed encouragement, reflection, and thoughtfulness to get us through this important milestone. It is always great to work with you."
Michelle Fujii, Portland Taiko

"Musical consultant Byron Au Yong returns to LA for a brief visit to go over musical development of the show. Thank you Byron, for taking the time to jump on out for a quick weekend and your input and creativity! We miss you in LA (don... kadon... kadokodon don...)"
Bryan Yamami, TAIKOPROJECT

Experience

Portland Taiko (2009)
Composer/Consultant for Rhythms of Change CD

North American Taiko Conference (2007, 2009)
Taught Composing for Taiko
Taught 7 Ways to Develop New Material

Portland Taiko (2007)
Composer-in-Residence
Created Ji Mo: The Stillness of Solitude
Composed News

On Ensemble (2003-2006)
Composed Crazy Eights
Composed Two by Four
Composed After-Effect

TAIKOPROJECT (2002-2003)
Music Consultant for (re)generation
Co-composed Home with Michelle Fujii

Uzume Taiko Ensemble (1999)
Performances in Canada
Performed at Taiko Jam in Los Angeles
Performed at Vancouver Folk Music Festival
Performed at Vancouver Playhouse
Managed Belgium Tour

Regional Taiko Gathering (1998)
Co-coordinated the Pacific Northwest conference

Seattle Kokon Taiko (1996-1998)
Performances in Oregon, Washington
Performed at the 1997 Taiko Jam in Los Angeles

Okinawan Taiko (1995-1996)
Studied with Wataru Shinjo

Northwest Taiko (1993-1996)
Performances in Montana, Oregon, Washington
Au Yong is available as a consultant, teacher, and composer.

Consultant
As music consultant, Au Yong provides the outside ears necessary for artistic directors and musicians. He provides feedback from multiple perspectives informed by his experience as a performer and journalist.

Teacher
Au Yong teaches Rhythmic Fundamentals and Listening to Music in the Dance Department at Cornish College of the Arts. His workshop methods are tailor-made for musicians who move and drum.

Composer
Awards from the American Composers Forum, Creative Capital, and Meet the Composer acknowledge the unique and effective ways Au Yong composes work. He brings an extensive training in Western classical and Asian traditional music to help performers discover ways to develop existing and new repertoire.