Our beginner taiko classes and workshops are listed below.
All Ages Recreational Taiko (AART)
Saturdays, 12:30-2:30pm [Mar 11, Mar 25, Apr 8, Apr 15, Apr 22, Apr 29]
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.
Classes will be masked and distanced, and may be held outdoors depending on class size. Please email info@tucsontaiko.org for more information.
First class is obligation-free. If you like the first class and decide to sign up for the full session, the cost is $120. Contact us to register, or pay with PayPal or major credit card here:
Kids Class
Sundays, 1:00-2:30pm [April 2 – April 30]
Rhythm Industry Performance Factory
1013 S. Tyndall
Open to youth ages 5–10, participants will learn the origin myth of taiko in Japan, and understand how taiko was used historically and today. Then they will learn 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. Time permitting, they will also learn a dance to go along with the song. The cost is $75 for each 4-6 week session.
Odaiko Sonora is excited to have Kristina McGaha from Suzuyuki Kai Dance and MoGan Daiko as our guest instructor! Contact kristinakeiko@gmail.com for more information.
Taiko Essentials *INTERMITTENT*
Saturdays, 10:45am-12:15pm
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, be held outdoors, 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.
Fue Circle *ON HIATUS*
Second Saturday monthly, 9-10am
Rhythm Industry Performance Factory
1013 S. Tyndall
Informal, hour-long session for anyone interested in developing their skills with the Japanese transverse flute. No experience required. Open to all members and any student who has taken at least one AART session.
