Taiko Fukui

Under the guidance of Kurumaya-Sensei and in a wooded valley outside Fukui, a custom built Taiko Centre (Dojo) was founded in September 2001. Fully equipped with a complete range of Taiko drums, and capable of taking classes up to 20 people, it is a superb facility.

In this secluded, dedicated and supportive atmosphere, the Fukui Dojo is designed to deepen the technical and spiritual awareness of Taiko Drumming.

The Courses progress from basic training in posture, technique, rhythm and Hokkuriko playing style, through awareness of the various Taiko drum techniques used in Japan, towards the learning and performance of increasingly complex Taiko compositions.
During the courses, emphasis will be placed on the spiritual and cultural origins of Taiko, and on mental and physical focus and discipline. The drumming technique is based on the traditional and unique Hokkuriko' style of Taiko, fused with other Taiko styles and world music influences.

INTRODUCTORY COURSE
Monday April 05 - Friday April 9 2010
5 days - ¥45,000 Yen & £125*

Designed as an introduction to local drumming techniques, especially for beginners to Taiko drumming, but also advisable for any newcomers to the Fukui Dojo.

Beginners - need to display a basic aptitude for Taiko drumming, and be reasonably fit. Drummers and musicians, dancers and active sports players, should have the necessary co-ordination, level of fitness and sense of rhythm and timing.

Experienced Taiko Players - generally require 2-3 days technical transfer for learning new rhythms and modifying playing positions, and are encouraged to start with the Introductory Course.

Professional and semi-professional Taiko players, familiar with different Taiko styles, may apply for direct entry into the intermediate course.

Fukui - Cherry blossom season coincides with the course dates, the hotel being next to a famous riverside blossom walk. Weekends are free to explore the Fukui part of Japan with numerous places of historical and cultural interest in the area - the nearby charming Daianzenji Remple, open for Zen meditation every other Friday evening and the awe inspiring valley and forest Zen temple and seminary of Eiheiji. Visiting one of Japan's most famous gardens at Kenroku-en in historical Kanazawa (1 hour by train) is a very pleasant day trip. Kyoto is also easily accessible.