FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES OF TAIKO DRUMMING

The four principles of Taiko, as established by Grandmaster Seiichi Tanaka and adapted by Jason Seymore, serve foundational guidelines for all students. These principles emphasize the importance of respect, dedication, teamwork, and continuous improvement of our physical, spiritual, and mental health. By internalizing these values, students can cultivate a deeper connection to the art of Taiko and to each other, ensuring a harmonious and enriching experience. It is essential for every student embody these principles in their practice and performances, as well as throughout their life, fostering a strong community and a shared passion for this powerful art form.

Shin/Kokoro

heart, spirit, mind

In martial arts, seika tanden, the central force of “KI” energy, is located about three fingers below the navel. “KI”, the life energy, must flow from the performer to the drum. Another crucial concept is “I”, or mindfulness/consciousness. Both “I”and “KI”are essential to give life and expression to the taiko. When standing by the drum, your body should be relaxed yet grounded, radiating spiritual power. Feel the energy rising from Mother Earth through the soles of your feet, filling your entire body and extending through your hands to your bachi. Be aware of both mindfulness “I” and energy “KI” at the ends of your bachi. Your bachi are not separate entities; they are an extension of your being. If you lack connection through “KI”and “I” to your bachi, your stick action and the sound of your drum will be lifeless and flat.

Gi/Waza

technique, communication, sound

Learning and playing taiko involves preserving the oral tradition of passing on songs from one person to the next, one generation to the next, through words. Unlike notated scores, taiko songs are communicated through verbal cues like “don” and “tsu-ku.” By speaking the song, the spirit of the music can be conveyed, and ultimately, the sound of the drum must embody this spirit. The voice is also extensively used in performance. Each taiko player serves in the role as a conductor. By beginning a song with a unified vocal exclamation, we promote breathing coordination and a sense of communicative spirit among students and performers. Throughout the song, the voice is employed for encouragement, communication, and expression. Drumming technique is equally crucial. Understanding the nuances and enhancing technical skills contributes to developing a more stable sound and performance.

Tai/Karada

physical, mental, spiritual health

Physical strength and endurance are crucial. Exercises like running, push-ups, sit-ups, finger crunches, and others are necessary to develop power and stamina. Students also repeat basic drills in order to improve facility and mental connection to one’s body. However, strength training is never separated from training the spirit. When you’ve used all your strength and feel tired, that’s when you can truly begin to play, tapping into the energy deep within you. This sentiment extends to the mind as well. By focusing with intention on your body and spirit, your mind develops a profound connection with your physical and spiritual state. The mind, body, and spirit are not separate entities. However, imbalance is sometimes present within. By emphasizing the importance of a strong mind, body, and spirit together, using the art of taiko as a catalyst, balance among these three elements can occur.

Rei

respect, decorum

Learning and playing taiko starts and ends with decorum. Students should always approach the drum and one another with respect and kindness. This includes respect for yourself, your fellow students, and your teacher. Decorum requires students to also follow proper etiquette in the dojo. This includes polite greetings and other forms of communication. This attitude is vital when you approach the drum. Without the emphasis of decorum in taiko drumming, one can never truly appreciate the history and significance that the taiko has on the Japanese people and their culture. In addition, by focusing on respect, mindfulness, and decorum in the dojo; one will begin to live by these virtues in their own lives. Like a small pebble being tossed into the water of a still pond, the ripples flow outwards. You are the small pebble, and your reality is the pond.