San Jose Junior Taiko

The San Jose Junior Taiko program began in 1985 and is the oldest continually running children's taiko program in the country. Serving students from 3rd through 12th grades, 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. Since its humble beginnings, the Junior Taiko program has grown to over 60 students learning in 5 progressive class levels.

COVID-19 policy for all classes

  • Masks are optional inside the SJT studio.

  • Neither proof of COVID-19 vaccination nor a negative rapid test result is no longer required.

  • Anyone feeling sick is encouraged to stay home.

  • All SJT personnel and Junior Taiko instructors have been fully vaccinated.

admission to the junior taiko program

Admission is by audition only. Students who are interested in trying out for Junior Taiko must successfully complete the 4-week Audition Class in August. Those who show the required skill and interest will be invited to join the Junior Taiko Program in September 2024. Classes will continue through the school year and will conclude at the Junior Taiko Recital in May, 2025.




2024/25 JUNIOR TAIKO AUDITION CLASS

$140 + online processing fee. Fees are not refundable or transferable.

August 1, 8, 15, & 22, 2024

Thursdays, 5:30-6:30pm

San Jose Taiko studio, 377 Royal Ave, San Jose

Age: 3rd-12th grades during the 2024/25 school year

*** Two spots left as of 4/7/24 ***




FAQ

Q: Who are the instructors?

A: Instructors are SJT staff and/or Performing Members.




Q: What COVID-19 precautions will be taken?

A: It is no longer required to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative test result or screening for entrance. Masks are optional. Anyone may opt to wear a mask based on your individual comfort level and health needs. Observers are allowed into the SJT studio. SJT will continue to encourage participants, attendees, performers, observers, and instructors to stay home if they’re feeling sick.



Q: My child can’t make it on Thursdays. Do you offer the Audition Class at another time?

A: No, we do not.




Q: Does my child have to attend all four of the Audition Classes?

A: We understand that absences are sometimes unavoidable, but it would be best if your child attended all four classes. If your student misses a class, they will need to learn missed material on their own. Make-up classes will not be offered.




Q: How much at-home practicing will be required?

A: Students should practice at home 3-4 times a week for at least 15 minutes at a time.




Q: Do I need to purchase a taiko?

A: No. Students can practice at home on a pillow, phone book, exercise ball, or drum pad. You can also make a simple drum out of a plastic bucket and packing tape. You can see examples here.



Q: What does my child need for this class?

  • Sandpaper - We will give the students a pair of unsanded bachi (taiko drumsticks) at the first class. You will need to purchase sandpaper; the students will sand the bachi at home and take them to all subsequent classes.

  • A bag for your bachi - Bachi bags are available for purchase at the SJT studio. You can use a tube sock or any other bag instead.

  • Clothing appropriate for exercise - Anything your child would wear to gym class is fine.

  • Water bottle - The SJT studio has a water fountain that may be used for filling your water bottle.




Q: Does my child have to take this class if they already have taiko experience?

A: Yes. All new students must take the Audition Class.




Q: If my child gets invited to join Junior Taiko, when will their classes be?

A: Most students are placed in the Level 1 Class, which meets on Thursdays, 5:30-6:30pm.

Older students may be placed in the Level 2 class, which meets on Tuesdays, 5:30-7pm.

Classes begin after Labor Day 2024. Classes will meet Sept-May (no classes Nov & Dec) and will conclude with the Junior Taiko Recital on Saturday, May 17, 2025.



Q: What are the Junior Taiko class fees?

A: The current fees for 2023/24 are $615 for the Level 1 class and $755 for the Level 2 class. This includes the monthly class fee, new student registration fee, and the recital fee.

The above fees are for 2023/24 and are subject to change for 2024/25.






Questions? Email meg@taiko.org.