Our beginner taiko classes and workshops are listed below.
All Ages Recreational Taiko (AART)
Saturdays, 12:30-2:30pm
Next Sessions: Jul 18 – Aug 22 [6 weeks], Sept 5 – Oct 10 [6 weeks]
Rhythm Industry Performance Factory
1013 S. Tyndall
Your taiko training with Odaiko Sonora begins with All Ages Recreational Taiko. This class is designed for players of all abilities, including those new to taiko, and is generally appropriate for ages 10+ due to class length and focus/physical stamina requirements. We encourage anyone wishing to promote physical and spiritual health through taiko and those who want to focus on technique and learn new songs to participate. We focus on one song from the Odaiko Sonora repertoire and drills that support it. Once you have a few AART units under your belt, you can ask to join the Community Group.
Please bring a water bottle and clothes comfortable for moderate exercise, as well as a face mask if you are unwell. All equipment will be provided.
First day of class is obligation-free for new students. If you like your experience and decide to sign up for the full session, the cost is $60 for a three week session, $100 for a four-or-five week session, or $120 for a six-week session. Contact us to register, or pay with PayPal or major credit card here:
Kids Class *INTERMITTENT*
Sundays, 1:00-2:30pm [next session TBA]
Rhythm Industry Performance Factory
1013 S. Tyndall
Odaiko Sonora is excited to be collaborating with Kristina McGaha, sensei of MoGan Daiko, for this youth class! Open to youth ages 5–10, participants will learn the history of taiko, folk dances, and a kid-friendly modified version of Renshu – a song that translates as ‘practice’ and is a mainstay for every taiko group. The song features standard patterns that will be seen in many other songs the kids learn in the future. No prior taiko experience necessary. The cost is $75 for each 4-6 week session.
Contact kristinakeiko@gmail.com for more information.
Intro to Taiko/Taiko Skills & Drills *INTERMITTENT*
TBD
Rhythm Industry Performance Factory
1013 S. Tyndall
Try your hand at taiko at this introductory single-day class designed for players of all abilities! We will focus on the fundamentals of form and work on rhythms through games and drills. Generally appropriate for ages 10+ due to class length and focus/physical stamina requirements.
Please bring a water bottle and clothes comfortable for moderate exercise, as well as a face mask if you are unwell. All equipment will be provided.
Your first day of class is obligation-free for new students. If you like your experience and would like to support us, a suggested donation of $20-25 is appreciated. If you are a returning student, the day rate of $25 applies.
Taiko Essentials *INTERMITTENT*
Saturdays, 10:45am-12:15pm
Next session: July 18 & July 25 (Double Drum)
Rhythm Industry Performance Factory
1013 S. Tyndall
Rotating series of sessions focusing on different aspects of form, taiko styles, and other important skills. This session will be open to both Community Group and AART students and require signing up in advance. Certain sessions may not be appropriate for beginners; please check with an instructor if you are unsure of your readiness to participate.
Song Intensives *INTERMITTENT*
Mondays, 5:30-7:30pm
Next sessions: 7/20, 8/17 [Buchiawase], 9/21, 10/26 [Tucson Ondo], 11/16 [Repertoire Review]
Rhythm Industry Performance Factory
1013 S. Tyndall
Monthly sessions focusing on building familiarity and skill with Community Group repertoire to support students who are interested in moving from AART to CG and help CG members in learning new parts. Students are encouraged to have taken at least two to three AART sessions before joining, and must have taken at least one full AART session. Please check with an instructor if you are unsure of your readiness to participate. Each class is $10-$20, sliding scale.
