WORKSHOP DESCRIPTIONS
Saturday, August 20th 2016
Morning Workshop 10:00am to 12noon
Workshop 1: Beginner
Workshop Leader: Ringtaro Tateishi
Suggested Level: Beginner (0-1 years)
Description: Through step by step instruction using a simple verbal notation you will learn the basics of taiko including "kata" – stance and stroke and "kakegoe" or "kiai," and experience a bit of joy of taiko.
Workshop 2: Advanced T-Drill
Workshop Leader: Kristy Oshiro
Suggested Level: Intermediate / Advanced
Description: This fast-paced workshop will cover a lot of taiko drills that work on a variety of skills such as cardiovascular fitness, endurance, speed, dynamics, polyrhythm, and movement between the drums and around others. We won't spend too much time on any one exercise in order to get through as much material as possible so bring a recording device and prepare to learn quickly.
Workshop 3: Odaiko
Workshop Leader: Tiffany Tamaribuchi
Suggest Level: Intermediate / Advanced
Description: This workshop will focus on the advanced techniques for the odaiko. This includes playing within a song, soloing, stance, sticking, breathing, kata, expression, and performance.
Workshop 4: Composition
Workshop Leader: Fubuki
Suggest Level: Non-Beginners
Description: If you can write a sentence, you can compose a song. Stop thinking that only people with extraordinary talent or musical ability can write taiko music. The goal of this workshop will be to create a fully formed song by the end of the allotted time. All ranges of composing experience are welcome, starting with zero.
Workshop 5: Tonal Quality
Workshop Leader: Tyrone and Garrett Nakawatase
Suggested Level: Non-Beginners
Description: Ever wonder why you’re not getting that nice rich tone out of your drum like the pros do? If so, this workshop is for you. At this workshop Tyrone and Garrett will break down form to show an effective way to increase not only the volume of your hit but also the overall quality of your sound.
Workshop 6: Masks
Workshop Leader: Gerardo Avila
Suggest Level: All levels
Description: The main objective is to teach students principles of performance and presence on stage using masks as the vehicle. Students will learn techniques for the use of neutral and character masks based on mime and physical theatre. Students will be able to use masks on stage, and use mask principles on their own non-mask work. The workshop will include physical theatre exercises, theatre acting games and improvisation through participatory group exercises and exercises of concentration, relaxation and imagination.
Saturday, August 20th 2016
Afternoon Workshop 2:00pm to 4:00pm
Workshop 1: Energetic Movement Drills
Workshop Leader: Bonnie Soon
Suggest Level: Beginner
Description: The focus of the workshop will be energetic movement drills. Participants will learn rhythm patterns and choreography, then focus on body integration to create dynamic energy and emotions in their playing. We will find the flow in movement and carve space with form and technique. This workshop will expand the variety of movement styles you can play.
Workshop 2: Eisa
Workshop Leader: Masami Hanashiro
Suggest Level: All levels
Description: The workshop will introduce three types of eisa drums as well as a form of dance, with the intention of having the participants learn a complete eisa piece Mirukumunari. For those unfamiliar, eisa is a form of folk dance from Okinawa.
Workshop 3: Soloing
Workshop Leader: Fubuki
Suggested Level: Non-Beginners
Description: Does being featured as a soloist intimidate you? Are you uncomfortable making up music on the spot? Even the most rhythmically challenged person can eventually learn to solo. Participants should be familiar with basic taiko skills and technique.
Workshop 4: Open Source
Workshop Leader: Kristy Oshiro
Suggested Level: Intermediate / Advanced
Description: Want to learn a new taiko song to bring back to your group? Then this is the workshop for you! In this workshop you will learn parts to an open source song called Click It, a fun hip hop song written by Kristy Oshiro. The song is divided into three parts, all different levels of difficulty. It is recommended to have at least 3 people in your group to learn all the parts and definitely bring a recording device.
Workshop 5: Okedo/Katsugi
Workshop Leader: Ringtaro Tateishi
Suggested Level: Intermediate
Description: This workshop is designed for experienced Katsugi players who are playing Katsugi in their group. I will share the most important parts: basic strokes, Katsugi history, and Q&A session. Please bring questions for me to answer!
Workshop 6: Community 101
Workshop Leader: Karen Young
Suggested Level: All Levels
Description: Let’s talk about group dynamics! What makes groups function well? A leadership culture where initiative is encouraged and supported requires building a trusting community. What is community and how do you intentionally build it? Groups function more efficiently when people feel supported and empowered. Come discuss key leadership concepts and share your experiences with others. This is a hands on workshop so be prepared to make new friends and practice community building in this session!
Workshop Option 7: African Drums
Workshop Leader: Albert St. Albert Smith
Suggested Level: Non-Beginners
Description: I will be demonstrating music and drumming, vocals and movement for each piece of music. I will also show the different combination of music with the different instruments and at various times. I will allow the participants to create their own ideas and then discuss their process and state their ideas. I look artists to be creative while they learn. Registrants will also have the chance to perform in front of the class!
Sunday, August 21st 2016
Sunday Morning Workshops 9:00am to 11:00am
Workshop 1: Small Drums
Workshop Leader: Jason Overy
Suggested Level: Novice
Description: We will cover the basic rudiments of hitting and drumming with Taiko drums. Starting with the various types of grip and the 'gears' of the arms (shoulder, elbow, wrist) we will learn how to hit without hurting our body. We will also explore how to keep time with a metronome or drum machine and play along to some famous popular songs. No experience required, just a desire to learn.
Workshop 2: Bachi Twirl
Workshop Leader: Kristy Oshiro
Suggested Level: Intermediate / Advanced
Description: Taiko players of any skill level can enjoy this flashy and fun workshop! Want to learn how to add some dynamic flair to your solos or compositions? Bachi twirling is a very easy and fun way to spice things up. In this workshop you will learn basic twirling techniques and how to best apply them to common taiko rhythms.
Workshop 3: Ergo/Beginners
Workshop Leader: Tiffany Tamaribuchi
Suggested Level: All Levels
Description: Learn techniques for increased mobility, and freedom of expression, better sound, injury prevention, and increased power and stamina.
Workshop 4: Obon Taiko
Workshop Leader: Noriko Kobayashi
Suggested Level: Intermediate / Advanced
Description: Learn the rules to Obon drumming and hone your naname solo moves. It’s a Sukeroku stylized intermediate workshop of learning some solo patterns in a song format and then using those same patterns in an obon drumming format.
Workshop 5: Group Improv
Workshop Leader: Tyrone and Garrett Nakawatase
Suggested Level: Non-Beginners
Description: This workshop will teach some basic concepts and exercises to help you Jam more effectively with people you know and those whom you’ve never played with before! Improv experience not required but a minimal beat vocabulary is recommended.
Workshop Option 6: Yoga
Workshop Leader: Jillian Masuhara
Suggested Level: All Levels
Description: Participants will engage in a 1 hour 30 min yoga class with the focus being on muscles and joints most used in taiko. They will learn different stretches and mobility work that can also be used with their groups before, after or even during taiko practice. This class will open up the body for full taiko playing potential!
Workshop Option 7: Shinobue Workshop
Workshop Leader: Alcvin Ryuzen Ramos
Suggested Level: All Levels
Description: Shinobue, the high pitch flute that plays a critical role in both noh and kabuki theatre music. Interested? Curious? Take this workshop and explore all of the wonderful sounds that you can make and learn from one of the foremost teachers in this area, Alvcin Ramos.