At the Mark H Taiko School, we are committed to creating a friendly, welcoming, and inclusive environment where everyone can develop their taiko skills. Our classes and workshops are informative, fun, and challenging — whether you’ve been playing taiko for 8 weeks or 8 years.
In everything we do, our focus is on CONNECTION. We help our students connect to the drums we are playing, to our fellow drummers, and to the audiences with whom we share our taiko.
We believe in offering taiko for all people at all levels
- Introductory Level workshops allow anyone develop an awareness of taiko techniques, forms, and rhythms
- Fundamentals Level classes & workshops help students build on and deepen that awareness
- Intermediate Level classes & workshops encourage taiko players to explore techniques, forms, and songs while also focusing on a specific set of taiko skills or a particular taiko style
- Advanced Level classes & workshops are geared towards experienced taiko players who want to focus on creativity and expression as they cultivate their own unique taiko style
Our classes and workshops
We offer 3 – 4 class sessions each year in the Washington, DC area, with new classes starting up seasonally (Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall). We also offer individual workshops throughout the year, taught both by Mark H and by some amazing guest instructors and artists-in-residence.
Introductory Taiko Workshop
[Introductory Level]
This 3-hour workshop is open to ANYONE, with no taiko experience required! It will introduce you to the basics of taiko playing while also having a great time. Mark H Rooney has been teaching taiko for over 20 years and has created an 11-step program for good taiko practice. We offer this workshop several times each year.
Adult Recreational Class
[All Levels]
This 8-week class series focuses on “kumidaiko” (ensemble drumming). Mark H uses a variety of rhythms, drills, and song-learning to help students learn and build their taiko skills in a fun and engaging atmosphere. A great class for beginners as well as more experienced players!
Styles Class
[periodically offered at Fundamentals, Intermediate, and Advanced Level]
This 8-week class series will help students explore and enjoy different kinds of taiko. Mark H uses guided feedback to help you understand the movement and mechanics of a given style. This class moves at a faster pace than the Rec Class and is appropriate for students looking to learn new techniques for the first time or for more established players who want to improve their form and broaden their taiko vocabulary.
Skills Class
[periodically offered at Intermediate and Advanced Level]
Ready to take your taiko skills to the next level? This 8-week class series offers a deep dive into particular taiko skills. Mark H gives individual feedback to help you hone and perfect your taiko mojo. Students will discover new drills, techniques, and insights that they can use in their regular taiko practice.
Not sure which class or workshop is right for you? Contact Mark H and he’ll be happy to help.