An eight-week course featuring hands on taiko workshops and the history of taiko in the Japanese Canadian community

Monday evenings, September 11, 18 & 25,
October 2, 16, 23 & 30 and November 6
6:30 pm – 9:30 pm (3 hours)

Early Bird Special: $200 Registration & payment must be delivered by July 3, 2017.
From July 4, 2017 Fee will be $275
Maximum 10 participants
Location: Taiko Space (near Clark Drive & Frances Street)

Contact: diane@dkam.ca / 604-728-8240 / www.kataritaiko.bc.ca

Goals: To learn fundamental taiko drumming techniques and rhythms and to explore the context of taiko as a performing art within the Japanese Canadian community. No previous experience is necessary. Must be 16 years of age or older.

Objectives: During and upon completion of this course students will:
• Understand the cultural and historical significance of taiko within the Japanese Canadian community;
• Learn positioning and how to play taiko drums that use a side stance through a balanced approach;
• Play basic rhythms used in most taiko pieces;
• Learn two songs;
• Use kiai (shouts) to support their drumming;
• Practice basic care and maintenance of drums and other equipment.

Format: Each class will begin with 30 minutes of stretching, strengthening, and vocal exercises. This will be followed by 90-120 minutes of drumming, including a cool down at the end. At first, the students will focus on basic technique and drills. Towards the second half of the course, the students will learn to perform two songs in simple arrangements. The students will spend the final 20-30 minutes of each class discussing a topic related to the history and culture of taiko in the Japanese Canadian community.

Instruction: The course will be taught by members of Katari Taiko.