Protégé (Beginners) Class FAQ

Greetings and thank you for taking time out to read through our Frequently Asked Questions. We have compiled a list of commonly asked questions to save time and give those of you who are interested in joining Las Vegas Kaminari Taiko and playing taiko an idea of what you can expect with our Protégé class.

Las Vegas Kaminari Taiko was established in 1993 by the late George Goto. After 15 years we are still running strong in the Las Vegas Valley. Our advanced performing group performs at many community events in Las Vegas such as Mochitsuki, Obon, and Chinese New Year; as well as at venues for corporate events, conventions, and clubs.

Our beginner’s class will consist of an eight month course teaching the fundamentals of taiko as well as basic playing techniques to build a solid foundation for moving on to our advance classes. Taiko is a very strenuous musical and visual art form, so please take time to inform your instructors of any physical limitations you must adhere too.

How long are practices?

Protégé practices will be two and a half hours long. Your instructors will give you water/snack breaks throughout your practice.

What will I need?

Comfortable workout clothing: sneakers or tabi (barefoot is ok as well), clothing that will allow movement and breathe well - you *will* sweat. No sandals, boots, jeans, skin tight clothing, or dangly loose jewelry (wedding bands and small earrings are ok).

A water bottle and small healthy snacks (fruit, granola bars, etc.) are recommended. A water dispenser is provided at the dojo.

Bachi, notebook, and pencil.

And most important ear plugs; taiko gets very loud.

What are bachi?

Bachi are the big drumsticks that you will use to play taiko. You can purchase them here (link to Rolling Thunder). Look for the Bachi link on the right hand side of the page, click on Kashi Bachi. We recommend that if you have small hands you should order medium sized bachi, larger hand sizes are recommended the large sized bachi.

What will I need a notebook and pencil for?

We teach our students taiko through a traditional method of oral instruction called kuchishoga. Since in the beginning stages of learning taiko there is a lot of information to absorb it is recommended to bring a notebook for keeping notes and recording songs so you may practice more at home..

Is there an age limitation?

Currently yes, you must be 13 years and older to be able to participate in Protégé classes. We are planning to have youth/children’s classes this summer. Please check back for more information.

Where will practices be held at?

We are located in the JACL activity center in the Spring Mountain Plaza our address is:

4030 Schiff Dr.
Las Vegas, NV 89103 (Map)

Is there a cost?

Yes, there is a membership yearly fee of $20 for Adults, and $10 for students under 21 to JACL (Japanese American Citizens League). And an additional $65 for use of equipment and facilities. (Please make all checks payable to JACL)

What do the fees cover?

For the JACL dues, you are insured to play taiko at the dojo as well as performances you may participate in or outside of the dojo. As well as the monthly newsletter sent by JACL. The additional $65 helps to maintain the upkeep of drums and uniforms, and extracurricular activities.

Is there a cut-off date?

Yes there is. It is difficult to teach classes if new students join right in the middle of our teaching period, so we will cut off admittance period on March 8th. That is the last day we will accept new beginner’s until we start another class in 2010.

I have a physical disability/previous injury, will that limit my participation?

Only by how much you feel you need to limit yourself. Be sure to inform your instructors on your first day of class (we will also have a form for you to fill out as well) of any physical limitations you must adhere to and we will accommodate you as best we can.

Is there anything else?

We keep strict etiquette while in the dojo. Basically, if you would not act this way in front of your mother/father/grandparents/admired superiors do not act that way here. Please show respect for all your fellow classmates, your senpai (the experienced players), your instructors, and our facilities.

Thank you, if you have anymore questions please email Jen Caballero (iidxone@gmail.com) or Wendy Dwyer (art12w@yahoo.com). We look forward to seeing you on February 1st!