In this 2-unit course, students will study the history and context of ensemble taiko, or ensemble Japanese drumming, in North America, and will learn how to play taiko. They will learn basic stance and hitting technique in two styles of playing as well as to the oral tradition of song learning and teaching. Students will also have the opportunity to write their own song. Study of the history of taiko will compare and contrast the experiences of Japanese players to Japanese American players, and examine the role of taiko in each respective culture. Through discussion, we will consider how place, ethnic identity, and gender, among other topics, are represented through taiko.

The class will be taught in two portions: the practical portion, which will take 2 hours per week, and the discussion, which will be 1 hour per week. The practical portion covers hands-on learning in the playing techniques of taiko, while discussion will cover the historical and cultural significance of taiko both in Japan, North America, and beyond.

There will be short weekly reading and homework assignments, as well as three short papers, for the discussion portion of the course. For the practical portion of the course, students will put on a final performance at the end of the semester. The performance will include the two songs taught over the course of the semester, as well as songs the students will be writing themselves. Attendance is a significant part of the final grade, and up to two unexcused absences will be allowed. Any more than two unexcused absences will result in a failing grade in the course.

Interested students should submit the online application. Enrollment will be decided primarily through the online application, by the facilitators. Additionally, attendance at the info session will be preferable. The infosession will be on Wednesday, January 30th, 6-7pm at Dwinelle 130. Link to infosession FB event: https://www.facebook.com/events/315421965744833/