Since our inception, Mu has been committed to providing training for our participants. Many of our early actors, and all of our drummers, are "homegrown." Our taiko classes are open to all who wish to participate, although some may require previous experience.


About Taiko Drumming
Taiko is the Japanese word for drum. Taiko drumming goes back to the earliest Japanese communities where it was a part of daily life and rituals. Its roots stem from the drums that priests played to banish evil spirits and farmers played to celebrate bountiful harvests. Samurai used to carry taiko into battle to bolster their courage while instilling fear in the hearts of their enemies. Taiko were also used to carry the prayers of the people to their gods. Today, taiko has become a dynamic performance art form of musical drumming and choreographed movement based upon traditional Japanese styles and techniques. The development of taiko in North America is owed largely to the efforts of one man: Grandmaster Seiichi Tanaka. While taiko was originally performed by a solo male artist, contemporary taiko is performed by groups including both male and female players. It’s loud, strenuous, and pulsating with adrenaline. Rooted in the heart and spirit of Japan, taiko lives today as an evolving art form that is permeating the world.