1^st lesson free

Mathew

Rate $60
Response 1h

$60/h

1^st lesson free

Percussion

Taiko performer of 10+ years teaching taiko (Japanese percussion) and percussion basics for all levels

Percussion

Lesson location

- At Mathew's house: Toronto
- online
- at home or in a public place : will travel up to 10 km from Toronto

About Mathew

I've been playing taiko for around 15 years, performing with groups ranging from community ensembles to semi-professional groups. I previously taught and led a performing group in Michigan, where I also taught community classes for beginners. After moving to Toronto, I founded Toronto Shishimai Kai, a group focused on traditional Tokyo-style shishimai (lion dance) and its musical accompaniment, or o-hayashi.

My study of traditional Japanese music has transformed how I think about and teach taiko and gives me a unique skill set for working with both beginners and experienced players. Whoever you are, I can help you learn something new while introducing you to the rich history of taiko!

I also grew up with a Western music background (piano from age 5), so I have a strong foundation in music theory and notation. Whatever your experience with music is, I can meet you where you are.

About the lesson

Curious about taiko but not sure where to start? Perhaps you've seen taiko on stage and wished that could be you. Or maybe you thought, "I could never do that!"—in which case, I'm here to show you that you can! I teach private taiko lessons for all levels and backgrounds, whether you're a total beginner, experienced musician, or a taiko player interested in specific instruments or styles.

With its focus on a building full-body understanding of music and rhythm, taiko is a great way to work on core musical skills. As an oral tradition, it's also great for beginners, and you can start to work on rhythm and technique before you even pick up a bachi (drum stick). If you're a long-time musician or percussionist, you'll find some overlap, but also plenty of opportunities to challenge yourself and develop a deeper, more physical connection to rhythm and expression.

Here are some examples of what we can work on:

Fundamentals like stance, grip, hitting mechanics, and basic rhythms
Musicianship through sight-reading, accuracy drills, dynamics and expression work
Specific taiko styles and repertoire (this could be repertoire you're working on, or open-source compositions)
Related instruments like chappa (handheld cymbal) and atarigane (handheld gong)

How lessons work

Lessons are available online or in person (at my home or yours, noise permitting). You don't need any equipment to get started, and I provide the instruments and bachi for in-person lessons. Once we've gone through the basics, I'll recommend a practice pad and a pair of bachi or drumsticks for home practice.

A typical first lesson starts with a conversation about your goals and background. If you're new, we'll then move onto hitting mechanics and basic rhythms.

My approach

As a teacher I believe it's my responsibility to work hard to understand students' learning styles, bodies, and goals. I want to create an environment where every student can feel supported and encouraged to learn at their own pace.

Ready to try it out? Message me to set up your first lesson!

Rates

Rate

Pack rates

5 h: $300
10 h: $600

free lessons

This first lesson offered with Mathew will allow you to get to know each other and clearly specify your needs for your next lessons.

1hrs

online

$60/h

Taiko performer of 10+ years teaching taiko (Japanese percussion) and percussion basics for all levels

Lesson location

About Mathew

About the lesson

Rates

Rate

Pack rates

free lessons

online

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Sheldon

Taiko performer of 10+ years teaching taiko (Japanese percussion) and percussion basics for all levels

Lesson location

About Mathew

About the lesson

Rates

Rate

Pack rates

free lessons

online

Other tutors in Percussion

Ray

Grigoriy

Saksham

Mike

Aaron

Cassidy

Joshua

Madushan

Kyle

Rue

Joshua

Chris

Dhaivat

Colton

Medya

Harjeet

Josue

Matt

Adrian

Sheldon

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