Yakudo Traditional Japanese Drummers - taiko - Feel the power of the taiko!

In 2001, Yakudo opened its studio, where members rehearse and compose. The studio is also where Yakudo members instruct regular class sessions and workshops in its style of Taiko - combining rhythm and music with martial arts philosophy. In addition to in-house lessons, Yakudo presents Taiko workshops throughout the community.

Regular auditions are held at the end of each session for Yakudo's apprenticeship program. Apprentices learn the organization and performance aspect of the Yakudo performing group - training includes assisting in a "behind the scenes" role as well as stage performance and touring.

The next Adult Class Session will start January 6, 2010
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Wednesdays, Starting January 6, 2010
Adult Session 7:00 – 8:30 pm
Fee: $190/person for full 8 week session

Kids and Youth Classes are every Sunday*

· Kodaiko Class (age 4 – 7) 2:30 – 3:30 pm
· Sumodaiko Class (age 8 – 16) 3:30 – 4:30 pm
Fee: $20/class or $120 for 8 weeks, ask about annual fee membership

*some classes may not be scheduled due to other Yakudo engagements, a monthly schedule will be available to students. Call or email to confirm for the upcoming month.

For more information or inquiries please email yakudo@hotmail.com or call 416-410-9169
To register, fill out a registration form and mail it in with fee payment, no later than 1 week prior to start date. Confirmation of receipt will be done by phone.

For more information or inquiries please email yakudo@hotmail.com or call 416-410-9169

Taiko workshop at the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre

The JCCC and the Yakudo Japanese Drummers are joining forces to offer an exciting hands-on Japanese drumming workshop. Choose from special focus workshops and sign up for a unique and rare opportunity in North America to learn and play on real authentic Japanese Taiko. Try out Taiko for the first time or build on basic Taiko skills that you already have.
All equipment and necessities are provided.

** Contact the JCCC to register: 416-441-2345, http://www.jccc.on.ca
Workshop Fee: $40, $35 for JCCC members
Kodaiko and Sumodaiko Workshops Fee: $25 and $20

SATURDAY August 14, 2010

Fundamentals of Taiko Playing. 08:30 – 10:30
Learn the fundamentals of taiko playing Yakudo style – a combination of martial arts and music. Develop the taiko spirit with a solid base. This is highly recommended if you continue with more taiko lessons or specialized workshops with Yakudo.
Max. 10 participants

Rhythm and Tempo. 10:30 – 12:30
Using the fundamentals of Taiko Playing, this workshop focuses on developing your sense of rhythm and gaining control.
Max. 10 participants

Matsuri (Festivals) 12:30 – 2:30
Using the fundamentals of Taiko Playing, this workshop focuses on the music and cultural aspect of Taiko. In this workshop, you’ll learn a few festive community taiko pieces.
Max. 10 participants

Taiko Variations and Other Instruments. 2:30 – 4:30
Using the fundamentals of Taiko Playing, this workshop focuses on the musical aspect of Taiko ensembles. Different types of taiko and instruments make musical pieces. In this workshop you will be introduced to other instruments and get a chance to try some out.
Max. participants

* Form and Endurance I 4:30 – 6:30
Using the fundamentals of Taiko Playing, this workshop focuses on developing form and endurance for the visual aspect of Taiko ensemble playing. This workshop has also been termed as Taiko Bootcamp!
Max. 14 participants

SUNDAY August 15, 2010

Kodaiko Workshop. (age 4 – 6) 10:30 – 12:00
Learn all about Taiko and its ties to Japanese culture. Also learn fundamentals of taiko and rhythm, through fun activities and games played on authentic instruments. Create and take home your own taiko souvenir.
Max. 15 participants

* Form and Endurance II 12:00 – 2:00
Using the fundamentals of Taiko Playing, this workshop focuses on the distinctive form and stamina required to play in 3 different positions: all while playing various rhythms. Taiko Bootcamp returns!
Max. 15 participants

Sumodaiko Workshop (age 7 – 12) 2:30 – 4:00
Learn the fundamentals of taiko playing Yakudo style – a combination of martial arts and music. Develop the taiko spirit with a solid base and be able to perform a fun traditional taiko piece at the end of the workshop.
Max. 10 participants.

* will be a vigorous workout!

"If the whole wide world had a heartbeat, it would sound like Taiko!….(it's) the most fun I've ever had hitting something with sticks."
-- Ed Leung

"I enjoyed it immensely and am only too disappointed to have to wait for the next workshop… The presentation was excellent as were all the instructors"
-- Susan Duft

"…. a very friendly, fun bunch of people. The level of teaching has been excellent no matter who the instructor has been, and we have found you are all good at imparting your knowledge and encouraging. It has been a surprise to us how complex learning Taiko is and how much energy is required! "
-- Peter and Pauline Burgess

"…great teachers with such enthusiasm and energy; very obviously dedicated to the art of Taiko and to passing on the skill and traditions to the students. The class itself always went by far too quickly…it was so easy to get caught up with the drumming, and always fun."
-- Dr. Jane Toyota

"Thanks so much for the last ten Monday evenings and allowing me the opportunity to play your precious drums at the dojo. I found the experience humbling, invigorating and enlightening. You all teach with a wonderful, refreshing positive spirit."
-- Hugo von Levetzow