Beginner Classes
We hold beginner classes and workshops a few times a year. Watch this space or join the waiting list to learn about upcoming sessions!
Winter Workshops
We've scheduled three one-day beginner workshops for late 2024!
In each three-hour workshop, you'll learn some taiko history and context, and focus on hands-on practice. We'll teach you how to stand and how to hit, and you'll learn to play some simple patterns that come together to make a percussion melody.
Workshops are from 10 am to 1 pm on these dates:
- Sunday, November 10
registration link - Sunday, November 24
registration link - Sunday, December 15
registration link
Workshops are held at our studio in Bellevue.
Ready to sign up?
Register at the Japan-America Society of Pennsylvania website.
What happens at beginner sessions?
Each lesson will include:
- Calisthenics and other exercises to get your body ready to play
- Lessons on how to stand and how to hit
- Drills to learn and improve your taiko skills
- Learning some simple taiko repertoire
What should I wear/bring?
Please wear comfortable clothing. Be prepared to remove your shoes to enter the studio – we practice barefoot or in clean/indoor-only shoes. Grippy yoga socks or slipper socks with grip are fine too.
A bottle of water is nice to have. You should wear earplugs in the studio; we have disposable reusable ones available.
We provide drums and drumsticks (bachi).
What are your COVID safety protocols?
We do still have them! When you register for class, you must agree to follow our COVID-19 safety guidelines. These include:
- Everyone must wear a mask during class
- Don’t attend if you are sick or have been exposed to COVID-19
- If you contract COVID-19, do not return to class until your home tests are negative
More details: COVID-19 Safety
The good news:
- Our studio has an air filter and we can open the studio windows if the weather allows
- We can offer a remote Zoom connection to class or a recording of the session if you notify us that you'll be absent
Can children join?
These classes are designed for adults; older kids (13+) are welcome with a parent or guardian.
Is the studio wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, our practice building does not have an elevator. You must be able to climb stairs to access the studio.
