The San Jose Junior Taiko program has been running continuously since 1985. Targeted at young people from ages 8 to 18, the program consists of classes taught by members of San Jose Taiko's professional company who provide young players not only with instruction in taiko but also with opportunities for building creative expression, self-esteem, cultural awareness, and group cooperation. The ever-increasing number of students and rising level of enthusiasm each year give testament to the powerful synergy of youth and taiko.

Early Beginnings

In 1985, San Jose Taiko began its very first Junior Taiko class. At the time, the program lasted 3 months and had 13 students, who learned taiko twice a week. At the end of the session, these students performed the first song that is still taught today, Renshu, a practice piece utilizing basic taiko rhythms.

Junior Taiko Today

Since 1985, our Junior Taiko program has grown to over 70 students learning in 6 different classes. From our studio in downtown San Jose, you can hear the sounds of children learning taiko almost every day when the program is in session from January through June. All classes are taught by members of the professional company, sharing their extensive knowledge of the art form with future generations.

With the increasing number of collegiate taiko groups, San Jose Junior Taiko becomes fertile ground for skill development and relationship building within the taiko community.

For more information on this program, please email Program Coordinator, Wisa Uemura at wisa@taiko.org, or contact us by phone at 408-293-9344.