Koyasan Temple Taiko Group
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Koyasan Spirit of Children Taiko Group
The Koyasan Spirit of Children Taiko Group began in July 1993 as a Cultural extension program with the support of the northern California Koyasan Temple, Sacramento. The group was formed not only to teach children how to perform on the Taiko drums, but also introduce the legacy of Japanese culture to children of all ethnic groups. The group emphasizes three primary goals:
2) To teach the families how to build the drums.
3) To perform Taiko music for the community.
The program has been expanded to include adult members.
When the group first started, there were no taiko drums and everyone practiced on used tires. The members of the group started making drums by using old wine barrels which were taken apart, cut, sanded, glued, reassembled and varnished. Wet cow hide skins were stretched with hydraulic jacks and fastened to both ends of the drums. The stands were also made to for various drumming styles. We certainly appreciate the support and efforts of our members.
Songs:
Kodama (Echo)
In 1999, Mr. Tomida, a former Kodo member taught 4 basic patterns during the Taiko workshop in Sacramento and we have received permission to use and arrange them. Kaori rearranged it and named it Kodama because this song has many call and answers portions.
Ujigawa Daiko (Uji River Taiko)
Ujigawa is a river in Kyoto, Japan. This song was composed by Mr. Munenori Higashi of Taiko Center of Kyoto. Placement of drums symbolizes the Uji River and each performer represents fish swimming in the river.
Shukaku Sai (Harvest Festival)
This song expresses the joy and happiness of the celebration of harvest time. 2 performers hit each side of a drum on a tall stand using the yagura-uchi style. Composed by Kaori Sakauye.
Jihibiki (Sound of earthquake)
This is a collaborative piece. Each adult drummer created a pattern and they were put together by Kaori to create a song. When this piece was completed it sounded very loud and strong as if the ground was shaking; this is how we came up with the name of the song.
Shizukana Arashi (Quiet Storm)
Unlike the name of the song, this piece is not quiet at all, rather very powerful. Front row drummers use 2 different sized drums while back row drummers use only one drum. Collaboration of 2 different patterns represents phenomena of storm.
Buchiawase Taiko (Fight over Taiko)
This piece is a traditional Japanese festival song. Drummers fight over the drums by jumping in/out to catch the chance to play. We use not only Taiko drums but many other instruments like cymbals, shakers, conch shell, etc.
Hayate (Powerful Gust of Wind)
Each front row drummers play on 3 small sized drums in fast rhythms while back row drummers hit large drums loudly. This piece signifies the powerful gust of Wind by different sounds in Syncopation. It is composed by Kaori Sakauye.
Haru ga kita (Spring has come)
This song expresses joy and happiness of welcoming spring. Drummers play both side of slanted drums and circle around the drum while performing. It is composed by Kaori.
The Most Popular Questions and Answers About
THE KOYASAN TAIKO DRUMMING GROUP
Q1. What is Taiko?
A1. Taiko literally means "big drum," but the word is used to refer to forms of Japanese drumming. Taiko is an honored traditional cultural activity in Japan. The drums are used to express a person's spirit or feelings towards others and are played at religious ceremonies, festivals, cultural programs, music recitals and folk dancing events.
Q2. What drumming style is played by the Koyasan Taiko Group?
A2. The Koyasan Taiko Group is a Buddhist group that uses Taiko as a means of understanding Buddhist principles. Its training has a spiritual component with a focus on learning about oneself through drumming. Emphasis is placed on discipline, focus, individual growth, and working with and showing compassion for others.
Q3. Is Taiko hard to learn?
A3. That depends on you! Regular attendance at practice sessions and some practice at home is important. It helps to have at least some rhythm, ability to concentrate, and physical fitness. The instructor and performers are there to help support you in your efforts to improve your skills.
Q4. What age groups can take Taiko lessons?
A4. The Northern California Koyasan Temple has two children's Taiko groups for ages 7 to 18. Age should not discourage anyone from taking Taiko lessons.
Q5. How often and where do you practice?
A5. Practice is once a week at the Koyasan Temple, 1400 U Street, Sacramento. The children's intermediate group practices on Friday from 5:45 to 7:00 p.m. followed by the children's performing group from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. The due is $30 a month. Adult beginnerâs group meet on Thursday from 5:45 to 7:00 p.m. followed by performing group from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. The due is $40.
Q6. Who is the instructor and what are her qualifications?
A6. Mrs. Kaori Sakauye is our instructor. She has been playing Taiko for over 10 years and teaching since 1998. Kaori is one of the instructors of the Sacramento Taiko Dan.
Q7. How do I sign up?
A7. Call Reverend Asahi at the Northern California Koyasan Temple, phone (916) 444-0111. We will let you know if there is space available. Welcome to Taiko!
The Northern California Koyasan Temple Children's Taiko Group
1400 U Street, Sacramento, California 95818 Phone (916) 444-0111
Koyasan Spirit of Children Taiko Group (2006)
Director: Rev. Seicho Asahi
Instructor: Kaori K. Sakauye
Assistant instructors: David Sakauye & Gary Shimizu
Advisor: Tiffany Tamaribuchi of Sacramento Taiko Dan
Adult members:
Keiko Bevington, Allison Hebert, Eric Jacobson, Maurine Huang, Amit Khanna, Deborah Landin, Keiko Makishima, Valerie Maulet, Joan McFarland, Paul Melendy, Laura Mullen, Ellen Oka, Alma Paige, Paula Rivera, Nancy Sakasegawa, Audrey Thompson, Tiffany Tokiwa.
Youth members:
Kiyotaka Asahi, Masumi Asahi, Makoto Asahi, Monique Dong, Jeremy Franklin, Lauren Kawano, Andrew Knudson, Kelsey Morgan, Spencer Morgan, Diana Okabe, Jan Okabe, Nikki Olesen, Kelley Ting, Emily Tsunekawa, Anthony
