Summer Solstice Observation at Rothko Chapel

In observation of the Summer Solstice, the Rothko Chapel will be open from sunrise to sunset (approximately 6:20am-8:25pm) for a Summer Solstice Observation. In addition, the Chapel hosts a sunrise Tibetan yoga practice, and taiko drumming at sunset.

To welcome the solstice, Alejandro Chaoul of the Ligmincha Texas Center for the Meditative & Healing Arts leads a Tibetan yoga practice full of movements that focus on the chakras, clear the gross and subtle obstacles, allow a state of mind that connects to ourselves and others, and offers good intentions to all sentient beings.

Kaminari Taiko of Houston, a Japanese drumming ensemble, marks the end of the longest day of the year. "Taiko" is a Japanese word for drum.

The art of taiko carries deep significance in Japanese culture. Samurai warriors used taiko on the battlefield to signal commands and frighten their enemies. Townspeople warned of danger by beating on taiko, and priests used taiko at religious ceremonies to communicate with the gods. Temples and shrines throughout Japan display taiko as a symbol of purification and to dispel evil spirits.

Kaminari Taiko was founded in 1996 by Jay Mochizuki along with a number of talented musicians from diverse backgrounds and ethnicities. The members diligently trained under world acclaimed Taiko Masters such as: Daihachi Oguchi, Seiichi Tanaka, Kenny Endo and Takemasa Ishikura to learn the fundamental skills, philosophy and spirit of this centuries old Japanese tradition.