When:
Sundays: 5:00 – 7:00 pm
Apr 30; May 7, 14, 21; Jun 4, 11, 18, 25
(Plus Mark H Taiko School Recital on Jul 2, 7 pm!)
Where:
Dance Exchange
7117 Maple Ave, Takoma Park, MD
Cost:
$250 for class series (8 sessions)
About this class
This 8-week class is for taiko players at all levels. It offers the opportunity to work on taiko fundamentals, song learning, and (of course) kumidaiko – the special magic that happens when we drum together as a group.
If you’ve been looking for a taiko class that is supportive, fun, and engaging, this class is for you! If you’ve been looking for a good workout, this class is for you! And if you’ve been looking to meet some awesome people … yup, you guessed it, this class is for you! (Because we know that taiko players are just some of the coolest folx around!)
Prerequisite: One of Mark H’s Intro Workshops -OR- previous taiko experience. If you’ve never played taiko before, please register for one of our Introductory Taiko Workshops (offered about four times each year).
Bummer … This class is sold out!
Want to get on the waitlist? Contact Mark H and he’ll let you know if a spot opens up for you. Never fear … there’s always more great taiko around the corner. The next class series is coming soon!
This class is for ages 16 & up. Please see our registration and cancellation policies.
Throughout the pandemic, we’ve been following protocols for the safety and comfort of our students and instructors. This currently includes wearing masks in the studio, limiting capacity for our workshops and classes, and sanitizing equipment.
What’s Class Like?
Interested in taking a taiko class but not sure what to expect? Your job is to come with an open mind and a willingness to try (and maybe a bottle of water – taiko is a good workout!). Mark H will guide you through the rest.
Still want to know more before your first class?
Here are Mark’s 11 Steps for a Good Taiko Practice:
- OPENING: We greet each other and acknowledge that what we are doing there is not done alone.
- MOKUSO: We take a moment to bring ourselves present to that time and place.
- PREVIEW: We talk about what we are hoping to accomplish that day (and about other taiko-related topics).
- TAISO: Warm-up, stretch and strengthen. Check in with your body.
- BASIC EXERCISE: Always back to basics, no matter how long you’ve been playing. Focus on kata (form), endurance and your relationship to the taiko.
- ADVANCED EXERCISE: This time is spent exploring more advanced technique as well as your relationship to your fellow players.
- SONG STUDY: Next, we either learn new material or work on existing material. For taiko performers, this is also a time to think about your relationship to an audience.
- REVIEW: We talk about what we have just accomplished. This is also a time for Mark to review what to practice and think about during the week ahead.
- MOKUSO: At the end of class, take time to reflect on how class went for you and what you learned.
- GRATITUDE: We express our gratitude for each other and the work we did and taiko we played.
- CLEAN-UP: At the end of class, we return all equipment to its rightful place, clear the studio and make sure it is clean.
After class, we often gather for a meal and conversation. All students are invited to come along!