Parkinson’s Recreational Class (PRC): For New Students

Welcome to San Jose Taiko’s Parkinson’s Recreational Class! Here’s some information help you get started:

For specific questions regarding class and registration, contact yurikachiba.taiko@gmail.com

Frequently asked questions (FAQs):

“I have never played taiko before, is this ok?”  Yes, this is totally fine!  Activities during the class will focus on a combination of rhythm, movement, coordination, cultural information, as well as opportunities to meet others in the class.  Most activities can be modified for varying levels.  Feel free to participate at your level of comfort.  

“I don’t have a taiko or drumsticks at home, what should I do?”  Here is a link to an information page on how to set up a practice taiko.  It also has some activities you can do on your own.  

"I’m not that familiar with using Zoom.  Do I need to set it up a certain way?”  We recommend using the largest screen possible (e.g. a computer or iPad as opposed to a phone).  Being able to see you during the class is also important for the activities, so it is also great if you could make sure to not be too far away or too close to the camera (to be able to see most of your body) and also to make sure you are properly lit and not in the dark. 

“Can my spouse or family member join me?”  Yes!  This program is designed for those with Parkinson’s and their care-partners and family members.  

“Who teaches the class?”  PRC classes are taught by Franco Imperial (SJT Artistic Director) and Yurika Chiba (SJT Associate Member).  

“Where can I find out more about San Jose Taiko and the Parkinson’s Recreational Class program?”  You can read more about our program and see a video here.  We also have a Facebook group where we can share information (or just say “hi”) called San Jose Taiko Parkinson’s Recreational Class (PRC)  It is a closed group just for people who have taken a PRC class or a Parkinson’s workshop.  

“If I am coming to the San Jose Taiko studio, what should I bring?”  Drums, bachi (drumsticks) will be provided. It’s a good idea to bring a bottle of water.  Also, please note that we do not allow outdoor shoes on the practice mats, so you can either be in socks, be barefoot, or use shoe covers that we can provide.

“I might need to sit down or take breaks from time to time, is this ok?”  Yes, it is completely fine to rest during activities or sit down while playing the taiko when you need to!

More information!  (Read at your leisure, no need to memorize.)

Terms we use in class:

  • YOROSHIKU ONEGAI SHIMASU - Greeting used at the beginning of class, which loosely means "It's nice to meet you, let's work together."

  • OTSUKARE SAMA DESHITA - We will say this to each other at the end of class and means "Thank you for your hard work.”

  • BACHI - drumsticks

  • SO-RE - “ready, go!”

  • HARA - Your core and source of energy (Ki).  It’s located just below your belly button. 

  • GAZUUT! - A made up SJT word that refers to letting go of all tension, whether physical or mental. 

Taiko sounds:

  • DON - one loud strike on the drum head

  • DORO - two loud strikes 

  • tsu - one light, quiet tap on the drum head

  • tsuku - two light, quiet taps 

  • Ka - one tap on the edge of the drum head

  • KaRa - two taps on the edge

  • "Su!" - not a strike on the drum but a rest, during which we will say "Su!" 

The Four Principles

The four principles are all critical elements of San Jose Taiko’s unique style; no one is more important than another. 

1. ATTITUDE

The mental part of taiko, encompassing Respect (for self, fellow players, teachers, space, instrument and the history and art form of taiko) and also Beginner’s Mind, the idea that no matter how long you have been playing taiko there is always something to learn.

2. KATA (FORM)

The visual part of taiko, encompassing form, stance, and use of the body. The body and the drum make up the instrument together.

3. MUSICAL TECHNIQUE

The aural part of taiko, encompassing understanding and achieving an intentional sound from each instrument, musicality, technique and unity of sound.

4. KI (ENERGY)

The emotional/spiritual part of taiko, encompassing the flow of energy through oneself, between the self and the drum, and between people (players and audience).