Taiko in Saga
Wadaiko, also known as taiko, is what I would call an ancient art form. It requires strength, stamina and rhythm. Wadaiko started its life as a method of communication, possibly between communities, but reportedly it was used as a method to talk to god(s); the harder you beat, the clearer the god(s) would hear you. Nowadays it is a mezmorizing and awe-inspiring spectacle. If you’ve ever played or seen some professional taiko group play, you will gape at the effort needed to play some pieces.
I’ve been involved in Wadaiko Hagakure (based in Saga City) for almost 10 months now. I don’t know exactly how to categorize the group, but I’d say we’re amateur. However, we perform several times a month and get paid for it (if you attend). It’s fairly young as far as taiko groups go. Apparently the club was set up by the main instructor’s father some years ago, when they broke away from Hagakure Wadaiko (but don’t quote me on that…). Sensei speaks fairly good English, as do his two kids, Kento, 14, and Asuka, 17, who also are part of the group and miles above most of the members as regards talent (I guess they just have the genes).
We practice twice a week in Saga City, on Wednesdays from 7:45-9:30 p.m. at Yamato Wellness and on Sundays from 7:45-9:30pm in a Saga Chugakou. As a non-permanent resident of Japan, you will be treated as a junior member, which means you do not pay the monthly fee of 3000 yen, but get paid half what senior members do for performances.
So, please feel free to contact me (via the contact form) if you’d like more information or to come along for a trial run. I will issue one request: committment means a lot to these people, so no half-hearted attempts to be a part. You are either in heart and soul or out. You do not need any previous experience — just bring along enthusiasm and watch those biceps mould into shape!