Taiko Experience Report!

<<Yasmin's Taiko Experience Report>>

 

 I and two of my friends tried taiko for the first time. As we entered the studio I looked around and saw other class members practicing. I was so impressed by their rhythm and ability. Having never played any form of drums before I wondered how hard it could be.

It turned out there was quite a lot to it and I wasn’t going to be a pro off the bat.

The instructor was a lovely, friendly guy that offered instructions in English. We first observed the other class members and afterwards we were shown how to play some of their sequences step by step. There were in fact many different kinds of drum playing styles. 

The taiko drum itself is something quite interesting to see. A large wooden barrel with cow skin stretched over its surface. The drum sticks used to play, bachi, were long and thick and far more resilient than your would imagine! The amount of force applied to each strike on the taiko isn’t anything minor. Those bachi sticks are invisible.

Though I’d thought it would be quite easy to play, it was actually a little difficult. In order to create the different beats, you had to use controlled strength to hit the drums in the right spot. My arms and hands were a bit sore by the end of the 90 minute session. I was surprised in learning how little upper arm strength I in fact had. The next morning my arms still reminded me that they were more jelly than muscle.

However! It was most definitely a high energy, absorbing and fun instrument to play. The instructor taught in a way that was easy to follow and I honestly had a blast. As someone with zero musical talent or experience I found myself hooked on the drumming sequences. There was something really satisfying about the beat and the process of becoming more fluid in rhythm with the other class members. 

I can see this easily becoming an obsession. It’s a cool traditional Japanese instrument that offers you a good workout. What more could you want but fun and fitness all in one?

If you would like to have this experience, you can reserve through Wadaiko Experience!!