NATC 2025 Phoenix

This workshop invites participants to engage in creative play with texture while exploring different storytelling approaches within Naname choreography. Through a series of innovative movement exercises, attendees will experiment with various qualities of movement to enhance their expressive capabilities, discovering how texture can inform and enrich their storytelling on the taiko.

Participants will begin by learning a set of original Naname choreography, focusing on body mechanics and fluidity. Emphasizing the connection between movement and narrative, the workshop will include a creative exercise inspired by Thomas Locker's poem "Cloud Dance," where participants will collaborate in small groups to create their own arrangements. By exploring the interplay of texture and movement, attendees will unlock new avenues for dynamic expression and storytelling within Naname choreography. This workshop offers a unique opportunity to expand movement vocabulary while deepening the connection between choreography and narrative.

Prerequisite/What to bring: Some experience playing in the Naname style is recommended, but the workshop is open to anyone interested in diversifying their Naname playing with a more dynamic approach. Participants are encouraged to bring lighter bachi, such as maple or magnolia bachi, to facilitate fluid movement.

This workshop provides an introduction to the drumming and dancing traditions of the Obon Festival. Participants will learn to play and dance to classics Hokkai Bon Uta and Tanko Bushi, while exploring the cultural and historical significance (lyrics and background) behind the songs.

Recordings of the songs will be provided, enabling participants to continue practicing and perform at their local Obon festivals.

Whether you're new to Bon Daiko or a seasoned veteran, I hope this workshop offers you a chance to dive into a rich cultural experience.

Prerequisite/What to bring: Chudaiko Bachi

Ever wanted to perform and experience a hundred-year-old obon song? Taiko, fue, singing and dancing will energize you as you learn “Fukushima Ondo”. The song from the Fukushima region was brought to Maui by Japanese immigrants who worked on sugar plantations. Kay Fukumoto, a fifty-year performer of the song and a fourth-generation family member continuing the tradition, along with Maui Taiko assistants, will help participants to bring the song together. Participants will be sent links to learn the different elements and encouraged to learn them prior to the workshop. (Note: if this is possible - The song will be performed by participants at the Sunday recital with other conference attendees dancing.)

Prerequisite/What to bring: Knowing drumming for "Matsuri" will be helpful but not required. Equipment: kumidaiko & shime bachi