Ohayo-Gozaimasu!
Ever since I saw a Taiko performance in Golden Gate Park during AIDS walk a few years back, I've wanted to beat on some big ass drums. Sadly, I knew that I lacked a sense of both rhythm and timing. Despite these musical handicaps, I decided to find a place to learn Taiko and see what it could make of me, and Maikaze Taiko turned out to be that wonderful place.
Sensei Mui, as well many of the sempai (more senior students), are very passionate about Taiko and it shows! I started the introductory class last October, where we went over Taiko etiquette, history, and even got to use the drums the very first day. This is one of the few classes I've taken that I felt some instant gratification and sense of achievement from. What's more is that I'm sure it's not just my imagination when I say that I really believe my senses of rhythm and timing are actually improving! Each week, we progess and add parts to a song that we're working on, as well as do drills to help us get into the groove and improve our form/timing/etc. Not to mention, Sensei Mui walks the room and helps each student with their technique, so we aren't just senselessly banging on the drums.
At $15 per session, this is probably one of the best deals for an hour and a half long class where all of the equipment is provided. The introductory courses start approximately every other month, and are held on Sunday mornings. There are more advanced courses (Monday evenings), as well as workshops for improvement during the week (Wednesday mornings and Friday mornings). The studio is easily accessible by public transit, and if you have to drive, parking is readily available during the Sunday morning classes. read more