Melissa is
a founding member of Portland Taiko, one of the premier taiko
groups in the country. Her passion for taiko comes from
the sense of community and personal empowerment that taiko
provides. She also has a background in Asian Studies and
Japanese language and lived in Japan. She played
and taught with Spokane Taiko as well. Her passion is
sharing taiko and seeing players spirit come to life when
playing.
Adult Taiko Classes - on-going group
Monday nights, 7-9pm $50/month
For those who are part of the on-going group, this is the
class that continues throughout the year. To become a
member requires a testing of knowledge and demonstrated
commitment to the art form.
Adult Community Workshops
Saturday April 10th or Saturday
April 24th 9 - Noon, $50.
Never tried taiko but would like to experience it? Join us
for our introductory workshop to learn the history of taiko
and the basics of playing. Play time on the drums includes "kiai",
voicing of our spirit, and drum roll. No experience
necessary.
Beginning Adult Classes - 6 week course
Thursday nights starting April 15th
7- 9pm $120 (sliding scale is available)
Designed as a 6-week beginners' course, participants learn the
basics of Japanese drumming, including historical and cultural
background. Appropriate for students of many physical ability
levels, with emphasis on flexibility and movement. Students will
learn basic kata (form) and several drills. Students will
be given the opportunity to try out for the on-going taiko
group.
What students will expect.
Classes will incorporate warm up
exercises - both physical and vocal, as well as form
practice called kata. We will learn songs in the oral
tradition which means no reading of sheet music, it will be
a call and response way of learning. We will do drills
and play songs on drums. A great workout.
Come dressed in workout clothes and some
layers. We will have periods of intense workout
followed by not so intense.
A workout mat or towel for floor warm ups.
A notebook and pen for taking notes.
A water bottle.
and plenty of spirit.
Students need to inform the instructor of any
physical ailments of disabilities that may affect their ability
to do certain activities. Modifying moves and working at
your own ability level is important and welcome.
All adults of all ages are welcome in this
class. We don't have children classes at this time.
Directions to Learning Circle Montessori: 3001 W. Villard
St.
From 19th ave. head west on Durston then take
a left onto Michael Grove, then right on Villard. Follow
to the end and Learning Circle will be on your right. You can
park in the roundabout in front of the school or they have
parking behind the gym.
