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Taiko Classes and Workshops

New students are invited to start with a Taiko 101 workshop. Afterward or simultaneously, students can enroll in the Beginning Taiko class. Select students will be encouraged to enroll in an intermediate or advanced class which concentrates on form, timing, ensemble playing, soloing and improvisation. 

If you have previous taiko experience or any questions, please contact us at classes@portlandtaiko.org so we can determine the best class for you. We hope to drum with you soon!

All workshops and classes are held in person at the Oregon Buddhist Temple (3720 SE 34th Avenue) unless otherwise specified. Please read information below about Covid safety protocols and our refund policy before registering. Limited scholarships are available. Contact us at classes@portlandtaiko.org or call 503.288.2456 for more info.

Jump to: Taiko 101 Workshops | Beginning Taiko Drop-In | Intermediate Taiko Drop-in | Intermediate Taiko Series | Covid safety protocols, return policy, and other important information.

>>>Taiko 101 Workshops

DESCRIPTION
Learn the basics of taiko (rhythms, stances, and hitting techniques) in a fun-filled two-hour workshop. Instructors will guide participants through a variety of physical and musical activities and introduce background information on the tradition of taiko in Japan and North America. No experience necessary. Open to adults and kids 12 and older. 

WHEN
Wednesday March 27 | 7 – 9 PM, or
Wednesday April 3 | 7 – 9 PM

COST & REGISTRATION
Tuition: $40 + Eventbrite fees
Please read information below about safety protocols and refund policy below before registering.
>>>Please select a date, then click to register: March 27 or April 3.

See more classes below!
 

Portland Taiko class students

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>>>Beginning Taiko Drop-In Class

WHEN
Monday evenings, 6 – 7:20 PM
March 4 – June 10, 2024 (No class on Monday, May 27 – Memorial Day)
Register for one, several, or all classes! 

DESCRIPTION
This beginning taiko class will be focused on Matsuri-daiko/Midare-uchi, which will include history and cultural context of the piece, kihon for naname-uchi (fundamentals for sukeroku-based angled kata), plus Portland Taiko’s arrangement of the rhythms and improvisation. This class will be taught by Artistic Director Tiffany Tamaribuchi. In the event Tiffany is unavailable, a Portland Taiko performer will fill in.

PREREQUISITE
This beginning-level class is open to anyone who has taken a Portland Taiko 101 workshop.

COST & REGISTRATION
Must pre-register on Eventbrite at least one hour before class begins
Tuition: $25 per class* + Eventbrite fees
*Purchase nine drop in classes, get the 10th free. How? After registering for nine classes, email classes@portlandtaiko.org to get a one-time use code for a free class.
Please read information below about safety protocols and refund policy below before registering.
Click here to register for one, several, or all sessions in this series! 



>>>Intermediate/Advanced Taiko – Drop-in Class

WHEN
Monday evenings, 7:40 – 9 PM
March 4 – June 10, 2024 (No class on Monday, May 27 – Memorial Day)
Register for one, several, or all classes! 

DESCRIPTION
This combined Intermediate/Advanced class will be focused on Matsuri-daiko/Midare-uchi, and will move at a faster pace than the beginning level class. Students will learn history and cultural context of the piece, kihon for naname-uchi (fundamentals for sukeroku-based angled kata), plus Portland Taiko’s arrangement of the rhythms and improvisation. This class will be taught by artistic director Tiffany Tamaribuchi. In the event Tiffany is unavailable, a Portland Taiko performer will fill in.

PREREQUISITE 
One Taiko 101 workshop + 10 beginning drop-in classes + invitation from instructor

COST & REGISTRATION
Must pre-register on Eventbrite at least one hour before class begins
Tuition: $25 per class* + Eventbrite fees
*Purchase nine drop in classes, get the 10th free. How? After registering for nine classes, email classes@portlandtaiko.org to get a one-time use code for a free class.
Please read information below about safety protocols and refund policy below before registering.
Click here to register for one, several, or all sessions in this series! 

>>>Intermediate/Advanced Taiko Series – Taught by Tiffany Tamaribuchi

WHEN
Wednesday evenings, 6:30 – 8:30 PM
April 24 – June 12

DESCRIPTION
This spring session will be a continuation of the combined Intermediate and Advanced taiko class. Now that many of the basics have been solidified, we’ll have a chance to dive deeper into Matsuri-Daiko/Midare-uchi, including: 

    • The history and cultural context of the piece
    • Kihon for naname-uchi (fundamentals for sukeroku-based angled kata)
    • Portland Taiko’s arrangement of the rhythms and improvisation

PREREQUISITE
One Taiko 101 workshop + 10 beginning drop-in classes, one intermediate session, OR invitation from instructor.

COST & REGISTRATION
Tuition: $170 + Eventbrite fees
 
Please read information below about safety protocols and refund policy below before registering.
Click here to register

>>>Important Info for All Classes and Workshops 

  • All workshops and classes are held in person at the Oregon Buddhist Temple (3720 SE 34th Avenue) unless otherwise specified.
  • Scholarships available on a limited basis. Please email classes@portlandtaiko.org for details.
  • Sorry, we are unable to provide refunds for workshops or classes.

For questions, please contact us at classes@portlandtaiko.org or (503) 288-2456.

Safety Protocols for In-Person Workshops and Classes

  • Vaccinations are required for all participants, masks are optional.
  • Please stay home if you are not feeling well or if you have had a recent close exposure to COVID-19.
  • If you’ve been ill recently, please test negative on a rapid antigen test before returning. 

For in-person classes, Portland Taiko will limit enrollment to ensure safe distancing, open windows on two opposite walls, and run three large-room air purifiers. Vaccinations are required for all participants, but masks are optional. Portland Taiko performers, staff and board members are all vaccinated. Hand sanitizer and cleaning wipes will be available during each class.