The taiko drums are an integral part of Japanese music and culture and have been for over 2000 years. Interestingly, the word Taiko can refer to a Japanese drumming style, the music from the drums, a group of musicians who play the drums, and even the actual drum itself. In short, Taiko is not just the well-known drums, it is everything and everyone involved in the performance.
When other Japanese performance art forms like Noh and Kabuki began flourishing, the taiko drums also started gaining popularity as an accompaniment to these performances. Soon, they also became associated with religious ceremonies and festivals. Today, the Taiko drums are recognized as an amazing music style and performance art, in its own right.
We are super excited to introduce you to Taiko-Lab, a music studio that is based in Tokyo. Taiko-Lab offers guests an opportunity to participate in fun, energetic Taiko learning workshops. Not only is it an amazing way of learning a Japanese art form, but it also gives a deeper insight into Japanese culture. Let’s chat with the Taiko-Lab team to learn more about them.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and Taiko-Lab? Also, we’d love to hear a little background about Taiko. How did it originate and what is its cultural significance?
At TAIKO-LAB, we believe in our slogan “Taiko that resonates with the heart and body for everyone”. We strive to share the joy of traditional Japanese drumming with people all over the world. The origins of taiko drums date back over 10,000 years. You’ll see Taiko drums in nearly every temple and shrine, and this is because taiko is more than just an instrument for the Japanese people; it’s a deep cultural symbol.
The Taiko-Lab Studio at Aoyama – Photo Credit: Taiko-Lab Studios
Please tell us more about what kind of workshops or events you conduct at Taiko-Lab.
At TAIKO-LAB, you can learn the traditional Japanese art of Taiko drumming directly from professional Taiko instructors.
Does one need to have any specific knowledge about music to apply for a course at Taiko-Lab? Or can even amateurs join these courses?
No musical experience is necessary. Beginners are more than welcome to join and have fun!
Age is not an issue when joining the Taiko Drums course – Photo Credit: Taiko-Lab Studios
Is there an age limit for joining the course? Also, do you conduct your classes in Japanese as well as in English?
Our lessons are open to all ages, from 3 to 100! You can enjoy learning Taiko in either Japanese or English.
The history of the Taiko Drums goes back over 10,000 years – Photo Credit: Taiko Lab Studios
Are your programs only for locals and residents of Japan? Do you have any events or workshops for tourists, who wish to participate in a unique experience during their short holiday in Japan?
Both tourists and residents of Japan are welcome to participate.
* Please note that trial classes for the regular courses are only for residents of Japan, they are not available to tourists.
Where are your workshops or courses currently conducted? Do you plan to start in other cities too?
We offer Taiko lessons in Tokyo (Aoyama and Akihabara), Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe.
A Taiko Drum performance – Photo Credit: Taiko Lab Studios
What can one expect from participating in a Taiko-Lab event?
At TAIKO-LAB, our 60-minute trial program introduces you to the basics of Taiko drumming, teaches traditional rhythms, and lets you complete a simple song. The experience concludes with a performance by a professional Taiko instructor.
Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions. Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers?
We’d love for you to experience Japanese culture through our authentic Taiko drums. We look forward to seeing you!
Thank you for your time. Many of our readers are already aware of the iconic Taiko drum performances, and we are sure that they will find this information very helpful if they too want to take part in such an invigorating part of Japanese culture.
Where To Find Taiko-Lab:
Website: https://www.taikolab.com/english/
Instagram: ＠taikolab_aoyama
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taikolab.aoyama/
X/Twitter: @taikolabjp
Featured Photo Credit: Taiko-Lab Studios
