On Tuesday, the school was given the pleasure of going to Lower Campuses GAC to watch an hour’s worth of beautifully played drums by Gavino and the Ojai Odaiko.

I didn’t know what to think of it at first because I saw them once when I was younger, and they were all uncoordinated, and I wasn’t impressed. But yesterday the sound those recycled wine barrels made shook my heart and elevated me on the Lunar New Year. 

When Gavino would scream and repeatedly hit those drums with all his strength, I couldn’t help but smile and sit up in my seat. As good as Gavino was, my favorite was this tiny lady who played the gong. Man, do I love hearing that gong go gong. It just brightens my day up. It’s the best instrument ever created. 

All in all, my experience of being provided a listening to the great Ojai Odaiko changed my life forever, I fell in love, it was love at first listen for sure.

Also, when they were finished, I stood up to give them a standing ovation, but no one stood with me, so it was embarrassing, but I don’t care.

I love Ojai Odaiko!

pc: google