2010 Classes

Taiko has been called the least martial and most artistic of the martial arts. It combines elements of percussion, movement and expression in a dynamic and disciplined team practice. It can be a path to personal growth... and a whole lot of FUN! As southern Arizona’s oldest and most-established taiko learning center, Odaiko Sonora is the leading source of taiko training in southern Arizona. All classes are held at Rhythm Industry Performance Factory, 1013 S. Tyndall, and are open for observation. For info, email info@tucsontaiko.org.

Lack of funds is not considered a good reason for not studying taiko. We've been making this happen since 2002 on very little ourselves. So, in cases where the tuition is a hardship, email karen@tucsontaiko.org. We'll work something out.

Adult Recreational Taiko (A.R.T.)

Saturdays, 2:30–4:30pm unless otherwise noted. July 17–Aug 7 (July 24 & 31 are at 12:30pm). Next 4-week session is Sept. 11—Oct. 2. Fall 8-week session begins Oct. 16
Designed as an beginners' course, participants learn rudiments of Japanese ensemble drumming, including historical and cultural background. Appropriate for students of many physical ability levels, with emphasis on flexibility and economy of movement. Students will learn basic kata (form), several drills and at least two songs. 4-week class is $75. 8-week is $150. If money is a hardship, email Karen.

Taiko 'tweens

Thursdays, 5:30pm–6:30pm. Next two sessions are Sept 16, 23, Oct 7, 14; and
Oct 28 – Nov 18.

4-week sessions. Email zippy@tucsontaiko.org for dates of future sessions.
For ages 7–11. Participants will learn the rudiments of Japanese ensemble drumming and have tons of fun. Emphasis will be on having fun and playing together as a team. $40/month. Scholarships available.

Taiko Drop-in

Fridays, 3:00–4:15pm. No class Aug. 7 or 14.
Been thinking taiko might be fun to try? This is where to test the waters, reinforce skills and rhythms from other classes, and gain comfort with the practice of taiko. $10 class or 16 class punchcard for $125. First time drop-in is free, and should call or email to let us know you will be coming 481-8003 karen@tucsontaiko.org

Bon Odori Tucson ASP Style

Thursday, Oct. 21, 5;30–6:30pm; Saturdays, Oct. 23 & 30, 12:30–2:15pm.
At these free community workshops, you'll learn about Obon, the ancient Japanese Buddhist ancestor festival. A central part of the festival is the Bon Odori, or community dance. Obon dances are usually so simple you can learn the basic movements after only a few minutes of watching. Learn an original dance created by Odaiko Sonora specifically for Tucson's All Souls Procession. Work with us to make a costume, and then join us in the Procession at 5pm on Nov. 7. Free. Donations welcome.

Introduction to Taiko Workshop

No current date scheduled. Email karen@tucsontaiko.org to enroll. This class can be requested for groups of 6 or more.
This is a special 2.25 hour session is designed for those who want to learn a bit of everything about taiko and their local taiko-za. Participants gain a knowledge of the historical and cultural background, basic form and technique, drills, and traditional and modern taiko songs that make this compelling art form so unique. Since the next Intro unit is integrated into our first ART class, your $25 fee will be credited toward enrollment if you choose to continue with the next ART session

Taiko Classes & Group Membership

Odaiko Sonora is the leading source of high quality taiko instruction available to the communities of Tucson and southern Arizona. Opportunities to learn and play taiko include:

• Recreational Taiko Classes for all ages and abilities, designed for those new to taiko and those wishing to promote physical and spiritual health through taiko. ART (Adult Recreational Taiko) is also great for the players who wish to focus on technique and learn new songs. Enrolled students may observe and participate to the best of their ability in the OS Community Group (CG), but will receive no instruction there.

• Odaiko Sonora Community Group (formerly the "Tucson Taiko Juku"). The CG is a self-guided entity for players who wish to work together as a group to increase skill levels, expand repetoire, and work towards community performances 3–5 times a year. Students qualify to join the CG after taking one to three ART units and learning several required songs and drills. The CG is led by senior players and instructed by Performing Ensemble Members once a month. A free CG Track exists for recreational students who wish to join the ongoing CG.

• Odaiko Sonora Performing Ensemble. With over 40 performances—for nearly 13,000 people—each year, these are players committed to taiko as a performing art form. Performances vary from outdoor festivals to private parties to staged theatrical productions. Dedication, rigorous training, creative contribution, flexibility and a great attitude are what define these players. A Performer Understudy group exists for CG members who wish to work towards becoming Performers.

Master Classes

In addition to weekly classes, Odaiko Sonora regularly brings guest teachers to Tucson for intensive workshops. Some of the most highly acclaimed taiko players and instructors in North America have come to the area through this program, including Tiffany Tamaribuchi of Sacramento Taiko Dan, San Jose Taiko leaders, members of Mu Daiko from Minneapolis and Somei Yoshino Taiko Ensemble. Odaiko Sonora also hosts international taiko artists such as Shidara, and programs through Kodo Arts Sphere America (KASA). Bookmark the News & Performances page for announcements about upcoming workshops!