NATC 2025 Phoenix

This workshop offers participants a comprehensive introduction to the foundational techniques of the Odaiko including grip, stance, and mechanics.

In addition to technique, attendees will develop a deeper understanding of Odaiko performance through practice methods for continued development beyond NATC, and repertoire that can be performed with their own ensembles.

Whether you are approaching the Odaiko for the first time or are a seasoned player seeking to refine your fundamentals, I hope this workshop has something to offer you.

Prerequisite/What to bring: Odaiko bachi

Odaiko is one of the most demanding instruments in the Taiko world. There are Odaiko contests in Japan, Brazil and now USA. This workshop will be about developing Odaiko players to a next level, with an approach closer to a sports one.
Firstly the players will learn a technique for competitive Odaiko and then we can improve each player´s personal solo with feedback about the composition, technique, movement, sound and intention.

This workshop is meant only for the ones that have an Odaiko burning inside them and are ready to sweat to earn it.

Prerequisite/What to bring: - Odaiko bachi
- Braveness
- Odaiko heart

Prepare for an invigorating and high-energy Odaiko workout session, designed to harness the power and intensity of the Odaiko for an uchikomi workout. This session is about embracing the physicality of Odaiko performance, allowing participants to experience the full range of energy and movement inherent in this style.

This workshop is open to participants of all levels. I’d like to welcome participants seeking both the exhilaration of playing Odaiko and the benefits of a taiko workout.

Prerequisite/What to bring: Odaiko bachi

Basics for performing on the 'big drum' will include stance, grip, hitting techniques, training tips, maximizing sounds, and relaxing. Traditional Kabuki patterns on the odaiko will also be introduced. A practice odaiko piece, Odaiko Kakeai Kihon Kyoku (an open source piece), will be taught focusing on fundamentals, simple improvisation, base beat patterns, and becoming more comfortable and dynamic at performing the odaiko.

Prerequisite/What to bring: Bring a pair of Odaiko bachi which can be made of hinoki (or similar soft wood) pine (or similar medium hardness) or oak (kashi) or similar hard wood. The bachi can be sized for what you normally play in your group. The corners of the bachi should be slightly rounded off to protect the skins (often new bachi have a sharp corner which can tear the skins).