Our Fall Rec Class will begin on September 24!
When:
Sundays: 5:00 – 7:00 pm
Sept 24; Oct 1, 8, 15, 22, 29; Nov 5, 12
(Plus Mark H Taiko School Recital on Nov 19, 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.
NEW MARK H TAIKO PROTOCOLS FOR FALL 2023
Throughout the pandemic, we’ve been carefully following protocols for the safety and comfort of our students and instructors.
- Beginning in Fall 2023, masks will be OPTIONAL in our workshops and classes
- This is subject to change based on community COVID levels
- Instructors are fully vaccinated and will stay up-to-date with boosters as available
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!