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!
