Taiko is the Japanese word for drum and refers to the modern style of playing these drums. Wadaiko (in Japan) and kumi daiko (in North America) is movement infused, heart-pounding, dynamic group drumming. Think of it as a high energy performance art that combines music, dance, martial arts, athletics, and culture.
WHY TAIKO?
Introduce and reinforce music skills and practice
Open a window to Japanese/Japanese American culture
Strengthen community
Encourage physical activity; emphasize gross and fine motor movements
Increase focus and concentration
Build confidence
Integrate mind, body, and spirit
Empower individuals
RESEARCH JOURNAL:
Effects of Group Drumming Interventions on Anxiety, Depression, Social Resilience and Inflammatory Immune Response amount Mental Health Service Users
Taiko is...
“...passion (J.Cho)
...taking risks (J. Weir)
...community (J. Ellsworth)
...communication (M. Todokoro Buchanan)
...teamwork (C. O’Brien)
...fluid (E. Valentine)
...powerful (S. Tanabe)
...a gate (A. Teraoka)”
Taiko Links and Resources
MNTAIKO
Making taiko drums affordable - local artisan taiko maker
TAIKO COMMUNITY ALLIANCE
Empowering the people and advancing the art of taiko
KADON
Online taiko and fue lessons
WOMEN AND TAIKO
Website and resource promoting women and taiko
TAIKOSOURCE
Documenting the past, present, and future of taiko performance