Interested in learning and playing taiko with us?

New students may attend Wednesday and/or Saturday class. Once you've attended a first beginner class, we'll share info on additional class opportunities. The more often you attend, the faster you'll learn and the more fun you'll have! Beginners play alongside more experienced students and teachers - it's a supportive group activity.

As of October 2022, masks are still required. Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing. All jewelry (rings, watches, earrings, bracelets, necklaces etc.) should be removed before class. This is an active class - dress for martial arts.

Arrive on-time to register and get instructions. Payment is cash or check only.

Pacific Renaissance Plaza: 388 9th St. The dojo entrance is on the ground floor, in the northeast corner of the courtyard, to the right of the library. Convenient to BART, and parking in the basement. [map] Look for Emeryville Taiko sign inside or outside the lobby to guide you to the classroom. As of latest updates, parking is $3 in evenings and $7 on Saturday.

Most of our classes have the same structure:

• Students arrive and sign in
• Drums are setup
• Warmup exercises
• Drills and group instruction by sensei
• Breakout sessions
• Group reconvenes for mini-performance
• Drums put away
• Line up for closing

Once we begin warmups, class is in "dojo mode". We'll teach you our dojo etiquette that makes class effective and still fun. For instance:

• Once class starts, use your eyes and ears to follow along, listen to instructions
• Drums are handled with care. Don't touch the drumhead with your hands

Taiko is taught in the tradition of martial arts. The essence of Taiko is not only looked upon as the skillful playing of percussion instruments, but as the discipline of mind and body in the spirit of complete respect and unity among the drummers. Taiko players are more than just fellow drummers. They are sisters and brothers. We are family. We help each other.

Sensei and assistant teachers will tell you what to practice. Give us your email again when you signup at class so we can invite you to our Slack channels to receive study materials, reminders and announcements.