“The Art of Taiko with Kenny Endo” is a lecture/demonstration on the art of taiko, Japanese drumming.
Experience a unique cultural and educational program introducing the many drums and percussion instruments of Japan including a short hands-on experience. From the sound of thunder to images of falling snow, taiko has a myriad of expressions. Try your hand at a popular cultural art which involves the whole person—body, mind, and spirit. Participants will learn about the instruments, see and hear them in demonstration, then receive a simple lesson in taiko drumming. Master Taiko Artist, Kenny Endo, began early training in western drums but discovered TAIKO to be his path in life. Mr. Endo has over 40 years experience playing the taiko and was the first non-Japanese national to receive a stage name and master’s license in the art of classical Japanese drumming as found in Kabuki and Noh theatres. He has performed extensively throughout the U.S. and Japan as well as in Europe, Asia, Australia, Egypt, and the former U.S.S.R.
Offered throughout Hawaii, mainland and internationally via Kendo Music
Offered through Outreach College at the University of Hawaii for schools, libraries, community centers, and correctional facilities in Hawaii.
http://www.outreach.hawaii.edu/scep/artistinfo.asp?WebPageID=SCEP00019
TCP at Waianae
US Army Hawaii Library (2014)
Workshops
Taiko Center of the Pacific instructors offer workshop(s) from 1-6 hours/day for beginners through advanced levels. Workshop topics range from “Taste of Taiko” for Beginners to Edo Bayashi (Tokyo Festival Music), Edo Kotobuki Jishi (traditional lion dance of old Tokyo), techniques for shimedaiko, naname (slant style) chu daiko, Odaiko (big drum), interlocking rhythms, shimedaiko tightening, practice techniques, and more. Offered locally, nationally, and internationally. Great also for corporate team building!
Residencies
Taiko Center of the Pacific instructors can do short or long term residencies at your school, institute, or organization. In the residencies, we work with children starting from age 3 all the way to seniors. Its never “too early” or “too late” says head instructor, Kenny Endo. The basics starting with warm up exercises, drumstick grip, stance, form, and simple patterns to short practice pieces are taught. Time allowing, creative original works applied to the taiko can be developed. Offered locally, nationally, and internationally. FUN and INVIGORATING!
To bring a similar residency program into your school, contact: taikoarts@gmail.com
Taiko Center of the Pacific 