Spring 2026

Students will develop the ability to perform Japanese taiko (drum)--an artform that combines theatrical movements with a foundation in martial arts with the incredibly powerful tones and energetic rhythms of drumming. This combination creates a breath-taking spectacle where the students will develop the knowledge and skills sufficient to work as co-leaders and in collaboration on matters of artistic interpretation, musical expression, and technical understanding of the body movement, in a group environment. The students will participate in a few performances throughout the semester as to get familiar with the art of live performance.

Along with learning to perform the art it is essential that the student learns the background of the artform--students will gain an understanding of the general history of taiko (ancient to present day), focusing primarily on the advent of kumi-daiko (1950s-present day).