TAIKO STAIRMASTER
Two day workshop
Taiko Stairmaster is the ultimate taiko exercise to make both left and right hands equal.
As many taiko drumming pieces emphasize the right hand over the left, many practicioners gradually find a
large difference strength and control between the right and left hands. With this in mind, Art Lee created the Taiko Stairmaster in 2004 with seven levels of difficulty. The Taiko Stairmaster workshop
has become one of the most sought after taiko workshops among intermediate to professional taiko players as well as percussionists of many styles. Intermediate to professional levels are recommended, although
beginners are welcome to take the challenge.
DENTO YORI
3 hour to two month residency
To fully understand what taiko is,
it is necessary to study the history and traditions.
This is one of the guiding principles upon which Wadaiko TOKARA is founded. Each member must learn and master many traditional pieces before being allowed to perform the original pieces.
Dento Yori Taiko Workshops brings taiko practioners into the fascinating and abundant world that is traditional wadaiko.
Participants will study the history, theory and playing styles of one or many traditional taiko pieces, depending upon the length of the workshop.
**Residencies one month and longer can include three to five pieces plus one original piece**
HIP-UP TAIKO
1 to 1.5 hour workshop
TOKARA introduces a new style of taiko/aerobic workshop from autumn 2009 called HIP-UP TAIKO.
"Hip Up" is a phrase used in Japan meaning to become physically fit. Hip-Up Taiko is a new style of workshop for both taiko practicioners and those who have no experience in taiko at all, and is designed to with the idea of playing very simple taiko rhythms mixed with a full aerobic
body workout. Movements are dynamic upper and lower body movements based upon the unique TOKARA style of taiko. Rhythms are extremely simple and fun, allowing all participants to get a good full-body workout.
INTENSIVE WEEKLONG PROGRAMS
INADANI TAIKO DRUMMING COURSE
Beginners Course - JAPAN
This course is designed for the purpose of bringing the taiko practitioner closer to understanding the art that is Wadaiko in Japan.
For this reason, the training site, nestled between the mountains of Shimoina, was specifically chosen to enhance an experience and
atmosphere which cannot be had in any other country of the world. This course offers a unique experience as it takes place in the
heart of Japan - Nagano Prefecture. It is here that taiko, as a performing art, was created. Each participant will be surrounded by and
immersed in the culture from which comes the heart and spirit of the Wadaiko.
Details and application can be found on the course website:
www.tokara.net/japantaikocourse.html
TOKARA BOOTCAMP
Intermediate/Advanced Course - JAPAN
The TOKARA Taiko Bootcamp (also known as TOKARA Bootcamp) in Japan in 2020 takes place during the beautiful Cherry Blossom season.
This course will allow the taiko practicioner to fully immerse themselves in the world of taiko in Japan; from intensive training during the day to enjoying the rural and unique life of Japan every evening. This is a full-week intensive course which creates an opportunity for participants to experience what it is like to live in Japan as a taiko player, and to train in and see firsthand the vast abundance of taiko styles that abode in Japan.
Participants will undergo intensive taiko study of all original drills and composition. Participants will also be able to travel with TOKARA to enjoy the Narita Taiko Festival, one of the world's largest taiko festivals.
Following the course, participants will have the opportunity to take home an original piece written by Tokara. All drills and compositions are originally created by Artistic Director Art Lee.
Details and application can be found on the course website:
www.tokara.net/taikocamp.html
KENSHU CORE TAIKO TEACHER TRAINING
Intermediate/Advanced Course - WORLD
This course is for teachers who already do or are planning to teach taiko classes and workshops, as well as for teaching assistants within a group.
Theory and demonstration will accompany drills and playing technique. Participants will also have a chance to view teaching principles in action.
During the morning sessions, participants will be taught movement and technique in various taiko performance styles. Afternoon sessions will include
details/drills/information for teaching successful workshops and classes and group interactive sessions.
Details and application can be found on the course website:
www.tokara.net/kenshu-core
All workshops are available for beginner, intermediate and advanced levels.
For certain workshops, material able to be covered depends upon available drums.
If you would like to book any of the above workshops, or you have a specific request for a workshop other than those listed above, please contact the
Wadaiko TOKARA Japan Office.
