A Little Bit of History... The Korean drums originate in Korea's farming traditions. The beats theselves are said to derive from the rhythms of work in planting and harvesting. Drum music continues to be an integral part of ceremonies and celebrations at harvest time, the beginning of the new year, and other occasions. In the tradition of poongmul, musicians of the four main instruments are joined by wind instruments, mask dancers, and others to perform in large open-air settings. Percussion music is also an integral part of Korea's shaminist and court music history. Because of its deep cultural roots, Korean percussion music was made obsolete during the Japanese occupation, and remained neglected during the American presence there. Student activists in the late 1960s and early 1970s, clamoring for revitalized interest in percussion music. Thie music is now a source of national pride, as demonstrated at the '93 Taejon Expo, where hundreds of musicians assembled in one hall to play together. It also remains closely tied with political activism. Korean immigrants have brought poongmul with then to the United States. There are now approximately 30 groups around the country, many of them centered on college campuses. While it remains closely tide with cultural preservation, percussion musicians have adapted to their contemporary needs and interests. Samulnori is a variation of poongmul which requires only one of each of the four basic instruments. Musicians are also pushing artistic frontiers in collaboration with jazz and other musicians.

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