NATC 2025 Phoenix

‘Mata Ne’ is an original beta composition by Fred Visaya, inspired by the adventures and experiences that lie ahead and the ways in which events can lead individuals down different paths. The title, loosely translating to "See you later," serves as a reminder that while everyone has their own journey, goodbyes are not forever, and we can look forward to our next encounters.
This piece was created as a gift for Puna Taiko, the taiko group based in Kea’au, Hawaii, where Fred began his taiko journey, marking a farewell before his studies abroad in Japan.

During this workshop, participants will learn the main body of Mata Ne, alongside movement drills on beta style. This session is designed for individuals seeking choreography experience on beta, with the opportunity to incorporate Mata Ne into their group’s repertoire.

Prerequisite/What to bring: Intermediate/Advanced-level workshop. Participants must have beta experience.
Participants will need a pair of chu-daiko bachi.

Writing a new song or improvising a solo follows the same fundamental concepts. This workshop covers the basic dos and donʼts of composing through a descriptive and participatory process. Participants are led through a variety of exercises that demonstrate the key points. No prior composing experience is necessary.

Participants will learn the basic structure of the song "Free Spirit" by Roy Hirabayashi.
Everyone can take the song and do as they wish with their taiko groups.

Participant Level: This workshop benefits composers of all levels but is geared towards
novice and intermediate-level composers.