Introduction

Welcome to the new TAIKOPROJECT Studio page! We are excited to have opened up our very own taiko studio, and the only dedicated taiko drumming studio in Southern California in Fall, 2009, in Long Beach! Registration for Spring 2011 classes is closed.

This summer, we will be conducting a few free introductory workshops at the studio, and then this Fall, 2011, we will start our next round of classes for adults, children, and also a new class initiative for emerging taiko drummers! We will be facilitating classes both at our studio in Long Beach, and at Higashi Honganji Buddhist Temple in downtown Los Angeles.

Updated April 25, 2011

Introductory Programs

Beginning Taiko for Adults - Spring Session 1
This class is an eight-session introductory taiko program for adults. Participants will learn the basics of taiko drumming, including history, stance, basic rhythm patterns, form, and spirit. No experience is necessary!
Duration: Saturdays, Mar. 5 - Apr. 23, 2011 (8 Sessions)
Time: 12:30 - 1:30 pm
Tuition: $120 for 8-week session

Beginning Taiko for Adults - Spring Session 2
This class is an eight-session introductory taiko program for adults. Participants will learn the basics of taiko drumming, including history, stance, basic rhythm patterns, form, and spirit. No experience is necessary!
Duration: Tuesdays, Mar. 8 - Apr. 26, 2011 (8 Sessions)
Time: 6:15 - 7:15 pm
Tuition: $120 for 8-week session

Beginning Taiko for Youth 1 - Spring Session
This class is an eight-session introductory taiko program for youth ages 8 to 11. Participants will learn the basics of taiko drumming, including history, stance, basic rhythm patterns, form, and spirit. No experience is necessary!
Duration: Thursdays, Mar. 10 - Apr. 28, 2011 (8 Sessions)
Time: 5:00 - 6:00 pm
Tuition: $120 for 8-week session

Beginning Taiko for Youth 2 - Spring Session
This class is an eight-session introductory taiko program for youth ages 12 to 16. Participants will learn the basics of taiko drumming, including history, stance, basic rhythm patterns, form, and spirit. No experience is necessary!
Duration: Thursdays, Mar. 10 - Apr. 28, 2011 (8 Sessions)
Time: 6:15 - 7:15 pm
Tuition: $120 for 8-week session

Taiko for Families
This one-time introductory class is structured for parents and children to experience taiko drumming together in a family-friendly atmosphere. Participants will learn stretching, basic form and patterns, and working together as a family taiko team!
Duration: Feb. 5 & March 12, 2011 (one-day sessions)
Time: 2:00 - 3:00 pm
Tuition: $10 per participant (limited space available)
Children should be at least 5 years old

Advanced Programs

Taiko Mini-Boot Camp
In this intensive 90-minute session, participants will be put through a physically demanding rotation of taiko drills, including Odaiko (big drum), Many Sides (two drum movement patterns), katsugi sling okedo, Yatai bayashi (seated ab-intensive drumming), and shimedaiko drills. Get ready for what could possibly be your most intense session of taiko ever!
Boot camp sessions will be held in Fall, 2011

Registration

Registration for all classes and programs is open! To register, send an email to liz.ishida[at]gmail.com with the name of the student registering, phone number, class name, and we will reply to confirm your registration! All classes have a minimum of six students, so invite a friend and try out taiko together!

Support the Studio

Click here for our BaseBeat donation form. Donors receive benefits such as t-shirts, photos, and priority selection for all studio classes!

Photo Tour

Click here to see the studio!

Registration Fees

Payment is accepted after registration in class has been confirmed. Registered participants will be notified by email regarding payment.

Studio Location

All classes will be held in our new studio at 1351 Loma Avenue in Long Beach, California.


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FAQs

What do I need to bring?
Please bring bottled water for yourself and a hand towel if you sweat a lot--you'll want both! Some students like to wear earplugs as well. Please feel free to bring your own, or we have some available for purchase at the studio.

What should I wear to class?
Most students wear comfortable, breathable clothing that you would wear for a workout--t-shirts, warm-up pants, shorts, etc. Please wear sneakers or tabi if you have them.

What time should I arrive for class?
Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your class time in order to prepare your body and mind for the class session and so that we can take attendance and take care of any last logistics before we begin the class. Please do not arrive late to any classes.

Do I need to bring my own
bachi (drumsticks)?
No, we can provide practice bachi, if you do not have your own. We also have various types of bachi available for purchase at the studio.

How do I enter the studio?
Parking is available in the adjacent lot at 1349 Loma Ave. We are located at the inside unit via the far door at the end of the parking lot. From the street, you will see 1349 on the building we are located at. The warehouse is a yellow cinder block building. If the lot is filled up, please do not double park or park along the side of the building. There is street parking around the neighboring blocks of the studio.

 

Contact Us

Head Instructors Bryan Yamami and Masato Baba can be reached at (213)268-4011 or via email at info[at]taikoproject.com if you have any questions about signing up for classes.