We are now offering youth classes!

The MIGHTY DRUMMING CLUB is becoming a YOUTH LED group, with assistance and teaching by Megan Chao Smith who has 30 years experience playing, performing and teaching, including 12 years formally in Japan. They have led many youth groups, and are building a youth performing ensemble!

Students learn the basics of different taiko styles, how to drum on beat, listen to one another, operate as a team, give and receive training. Students listen to their bodies, take care of and condition their muscles, develop posture, and physical stage presence. Students purchase or borrow the drumsticks, called bachi. They may opt to learn the Japanese bamboo flute. Through a traditional Japanese senpai-kohai system, students take leadership and ownership of the group as they learn traditional taiko songs and create new ones.

Mighty Drumming Club

Every Other Friday 7-8:30pm!

WHAT IS TAIKO? Taiko is the Japanese word for Drum.

It’s a high-energy group performance art that combines music, dance, martial arts, athleticism and Japanese culture.

WHO: Any young person aged 12 -19, wanting to be a positive team member and play Japanese drums!

WHERE: Located within Element Gym at 655 Fairview Avenue in Saint Pau.

WHEN: JAN 19, FEB 2 & 16, MAR 1 & 15, APR 12 & 26, MAY 10 & 24 @ 7-8:30pm NOTE: (5/12 is a performance @ The Ordway. Details TBA)

HOW MUCH? $30 per single class OR 10 classes with a $250 Punchpass. Please use the TaikoArts Midwest Punchpass system

Your Instructor mcsmith@taikoartsmidwest.org

Megan Chao Smith feels taiko is a way to connect with their ancestors. They are Asian American and queer,

creating space for youth of all backgrounds to learn a high level of taiko skill, and share Japanese and Asian culture.

They are also an experienced youth mental health nurse.