Taiko Concert and Class

19:30 doors open
20:00 taiko concert by Izzy Esho
20:45 opportunity to try taiko drumming

See videos on EshoTaiko.com

What is taiko
Simply put, taiko means drum in Japanese. Historically, in Japan, drums were used in wartime to frighten enemies, in festivals to set the mood, in theater as sound effects, and in temples for religious rituals. They were also used to define the boundaries of a village: if you could hear the drum, you were part of that village. In the 1960s taiko came to the United States, where it became a performing art (wadaiko), on stage, in groups, to entertain audiences.

Why I play taiko
The first time I stumbled upon a taiko group performing at an Obon Festival in Salt Lake City, Utah, I was blown away. They were dancing, drumming, moving, shouting. I knew I had to learn, and asked them if I could learn from them, but that group was from out of town and it took several more years before my friend found a local group that gave beginners’ classes twice a week. For me, taiko is a spiritual practice. It is a prayer, an offering, a way to be grounded, a way to celebrate life. I love the feeling of unity in a group when we play together. It is a chance to show your inner self to the world. It is a safe place to be powerful and big, without hurting people. The feeling of connection, to the earth, to the heavens: the experience of being a channel, an empty vessel, is beyond measure.

Why I offer taiko to others
There is nothing that brings me greater happiness than sharing the joy of taiko with others. I have been joyfully learning, performing, and teaching taiko for about 13 years. For the last three years, I have been living and training at Zen River Temple, north of Groningen.

Everyone is welcome
You don’t need any musical experience or background, or any level of physical fitness. Anyone can learn taiko. My approach is welcoming, warm, and inclusive. I create a safe space where anyone can feel comfortable.

What to expect
We start with warm-ups and stretches, then learn the basics of posture, how to hold the sticks and hit the drum. After that we play some fun rhythm games, and if time permits we learn a song or part of a song.

What to bring/wear
Please wear clothes that are comfortable to move in, and be ready to remove your shoes and socks