Taiko Lessons
We run classes for all levels of taiko drummers, from absolute beginners to performing members. Taiko instruction resembles martial arts training (rigorous, disciplined, and traditional), so come prepared for a mental and physical workout. We recommend wearing comfortable athletic clothing.Kaminari Taiko's classes for adults are split into two tracks: Performing and Recreational. The Performing track is designed for students who are ready to undertake a serious study of taiko, with the eventual goal of joining the Kaminari Taiko performing group. Recreational classes are designed for students who are interested in learning and playing taiko for fun, exercise, and/or personal enrichment.
We also offer a Children's Taiko Class for students ages 8 through 14. This class runs in five-week sessions at various times during the year. Click here to find out when the next class is scheduled and to sign up.
Performing Track
Performing-track students start in Beginner classes and progress through the Intermediate, Advanced, and Performing Member levels. Students on the Performing track make a commitment to study taiko and to support Kaminari Taiko. They are expected to attend classes regularly and to serve the group by maintaining the dojo, helping out at performances, and volunteering for other tasks as needed.The Performing track is open to students ages 16 and up. No taiko or other musical experience is required.
Schedule
Orientation: Tuesday 6:00 - 7:00 PM (first Tuesday of the month)Beginner: Tuesday 7:00 - 8:30 PM
Intermediate: Sunday 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Advanced: Monday 7:00 - 9:00 PM, Thursday 7:00 - 9:00 PM, and Sunday 1:00 - 4:30 PM
We hold an Orientation class for brand-new students considering entering the Performing track on the first Tuesday of every month. During Orientation we go over the very basics of taiko, including dojo etiquette, basic stances, and how to strike the drum.
You may begin class on any Tuesday, but if your schedule allows, we strongly recommend starting with an Orientation class. Either way, your first lesson is free.
Costs
Your first lesson is FREE! If you decide to continue on the performing track, the following fees and dues will apply.One-time Registration Fee: $30
Membership Dues & Instruction Fees (includes lessons and use of drums): $60/month
Bachi (drum sticks): $27 - $33
Sign Up For Your Free First Lesson - Performing Track
Just let us know your name, your email address, and the date you'd like to start (pick any Tuesday), and we'll get you set up. See you in class!Recreational Classes
Recreational classes are designed for people who want to play taiko for fun, for exercise, to learn a little about Japanese culture, for the joy of making music in a group, or all of the above. Students in Recreational classes do not need to have the level of physical fitness or commitment required of Performing-track students. Recreational classes have a defined start and finish, and all equipment is provided by Kaminari Taiko.
Schedule & Cost
This six-week class is open to enthusiastic students ages 14 and up. In the ARC you'll learn the basics of taiko playing and history, get a decent workout, and have fun making music in a group. No experience or particular level of physical fitness required - this class is all about fun, exercise, and the joy of taiko!The $110 course fee for the six-week Adult Recreational Class includes everything you'll need for the class, including loaner bachi (drum sticks). You are not required to purchase your own bachi for recreational classes, but if you would like to do so, they are available for around $30/pair.
Sign-ups (see below) are first-come, first-served until the class fills up. The Fall 2011 ARC will consist of 90-minute classes held from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM on the following six Saturday mornings:
October 29
November 5
November 19
December 3
December 10
December 17
November 5
November 19
December 3
December 10
December 17
Sign Up for the Adult Recreational Class - Fall 2011
Please fill out the form below to sign up for the Adult Recreational Class starting October 29, 2011. If the form doesn't work properly for you, please email the information below to email@ilovetaiko.org.You may pay the $110 course fee, due on the first day of class, by check or PayPal. To pay by PayPal, click on the yellow button to the right. You can either use your PayPal account, if you have one, or enter your credit card information directly.
Feel free to contact us by phone or email if you have any questions about the class.
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Children's Classes
Kaminari's Children's Taiko Classes introduce children to both the joy and the discipline of taiko in a fun, structured enivornment. A cross between martial arts and music, taiko classes will teach children about Japanese culture, music fundamentals, respect for instructors and one another, and the spirit of taiko.Schedule & Cost
This five-week class is open to enthusiastic students ages 8 through 14. The class is taught by Kaminari Taiko performing members, and all equipment is provided by Kaminari Taiko.The $100 course fee for the five-week Children's Taiko Class includes everything students will need for the class, including loaner bachi (drum sticks). Bachi are optionally available for purchase at around $30 a pair.
Our second run of the Children's Taiko Class will be held at the Kaminari Taiko Dojo (see address below) from 10:00 to 10:50 AM on the following five Sunday mornings:
July 31
August 7
August 14
August 21
August 28
August 7
August 14
August 21
August 28
The Children's Taiko Class must meet an enrollment quota in order for us to run it. So far we have not met that quota; if the class is still under-enrolled by July 28th, there is a high likelihood it will be cancelled. To make sure this class runs as scheduled, tell your friends!
Sign Your Child Up for the Children's Taiko Class - Late Summer 2011
Please fill out the form below to enroll a student in the Children's Taiko Class starting July 31, 2011. If the form doesn't work properly for you, please email the information below to email@ilovetaiko.org.You may pay the $100 course fee, due on the first day of class, by check or PayPal. To pay by PayPal, click on the yellow button to the right. You can either use your PayPal account, if you have one, or enter your credit card information directly.
Feel free to contact us by phone or email if you have any questions about the class.
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Location
All classes are held at the Kaminari Taiko Dojo in northwest Houston.9850 Drysdale Lane
Houston, TX 77041
MAP
Please fill out one of the forms above, email, or call before coming to the dojo. Occasionally lessons are cancelled due to holidays or conflicts with stage performances.
Email: email@ilovetaiko.org
Phone: Kay Roberts, 281-507-8542
