NATC 2025 Phoenix

Written in 2008 by Diana Wu, “Release” is the wild and crazy signature piece of Naruwan Taiko of San Diego. The name of the piece represents what taiko is for so many people: a way to access their full energy potential and release it outwards, thus sharing that energy with their team and audience. In this workshop, participants will develop an understanding of the musical, physical, and, most importantly, expressive elements integral to fully present the shape of Release. Mastering these elements will equip taiko players in not just performing Release, but also reach greater heights in playing freely and elevate their skills and confidence in engaging taiko performance. Specific elements that this workshop will cover are intention of sound, use of space in choreography, versatility of expression, engagement of core for endurance, and utility of voice in boosting each other. Through this packed workshop, participants will experience unlocking not only their own energy potential, but also fully awaken the energies of those around them.

Prerequisite Knowledge: Basic taiko form and terminology