• Interested in learning and playing taiko?

    Two ways to try taiko

    Basics of Taiko: The Art of Japanese Traditional Drumming 

    One-session public workshops offered every month for you to try out playing taiko. Learn more and signup for this workshop on EventBrite.

     

    Beginner classes

    Jump right into our monthly beginner cycle. Newcomer classes are offered the first Wednesday and first Sunday of each month. Read below about weekly classes, pricing and what to expect, then fill out the form below. Online sign-up is always required. Sorry, no walk-ins allowed.

  • Beginners

    Newcomers start each month!

    Beginner class is a 4-month curriculum teaching multiple styles and songs. After completing the course, you can join our performances and additional class times are available. Classes are at Pacific Renaissance Plaza in Oakland, dojo entrance is on Webster Street [map]. Beginners start on the first Wednesday and/or Sunday of each month. Beginner classes are two hours long, 7-9pm Wednesday evenings and 4-6pm Sunday afternoons. Note: classes are held year-round every week, and cancellations will always be clearly announced. You can attend Wednesday, Sunday, or both. Please read all the information on this page then use the form below (or email us directly at info@etaiko.org) to express your interest. NOTE: we cannot accept walk-ins.

    Members

    Expanded class offerings

    After completing the Beginner class series, you have the opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in order to participate in Beginner 2 and/or Intermediate classes, and to learn additional songs and skills. All classes are at our dojo at Pacific Renaissance Plaza in Oakland. Members use Slack channels to stay connected with curriculum, activities and performances.

    Kids classes

    Open to 8 and up

    Kids classes (age 8 and above) are 9-9:50 AM on Saturdays. Please read all the information on this page then use the form below (or email us directly at info@etaiko.org) to inquire and register your child. Our dojo began in 1998 as a project to teach taiko to kids in the East Bay, and we are thrilled to continue this quarter-century tradition.

  • Class Fees

    We accept check, paypal, and cash. Classes are two hours long (kids: 50 minutes).

    Multi-class cards expire after three months of inactivity.

    10 classes $140

    kids $90, seniors $110

     

    Compared to single class price, that's a $4 discount per class off for adults, $9 discount for kids, $7 for seniors.

    5 classes $80

    kids $50, seniors $60

     

    Compared to single class price, that's $2 discount for adults, $8 discount for kids, $6 for seniors.

    All you can taiko $120

    Unlimited monthly pass to all classes (seniors $100).

    $18 single class

    A great value. Class fees cover expenses.

    Financial assistance available

    For information, email info@etaiko.org

  • What to expect

    Be prepared for active fun

    Class schedule

    New students may attend Wednesday and/or Sunday class. Once you've attended beginner classes, 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. Note, after your first class, you will need to purchase bachi (drumsticks) which we sell at cost for $20.

    What to wear

    Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing. Loose jewelry (rings, watches, earrings, bracelets, necklaces etc.) should be removed before class. This is an active class - dress for martial arts.

    Getting there

    Arrive 15 minutes before class starts to sign-in and get instructions. We accept check, cash and PayPal.

     

    The dojo is at Pacific Renaissance Plaza, and the dojo entrance is on Webster Street at the intersection of 10th street, directly beneath the large decorative sign, not from the interior plaza. Here's a Google street view image of the entrance on Webster Street. Convenient to BART, and city-owned parking beneath Pacific Renaissance Plaza. Look for Emeryville Taiko sign on the door of Suite 128 on Webster Street. Last we checked, the underground parking is $3 in evenings and higher pricing on weekends.

    Class structure

    Most of our classes have the same structure:

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

    Etiquette

    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.

    How to learn and practice

    Sensei and assistant teachers will tell you what to practice. After class, we will invite you to our Slack channels to receive study materials and announcements.

  • Yes I'm interested!

    Keep an eye out for our email response :-)

    If you don't see an email, check your spam or go ahead and email us at info@etaiko.org

  • Connect With Us

    Find out more, get involved, book us for your event!

    info@etaiko.org

    EmeryvilleTaiko on Instagram

    Emeryville Taiko on Facebook

  • Donate

    Donations support our mission to bring the joy of taiko to more people and events in our communities. All donations are tax deductible.

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