The MIGHTY DRUMMING CLUB is a YOUTH-LED group, with assistance and teaching by Megan Chao Smith who has 30 years experience playing, performing and teaching, including 12 years formally in Japan.

Students learn the basics of different taiko styles, how to drum on beat, listen to one another, operate as a team, give and receive training. Students listen to their bodies, take care of and condition their muscles, develop posture, and physical stage presence. Students purchase or borrow the drumsticks, called bachi. They may opt to learn the Japanese bamboo flute. Through a traditional Japanese senpai-kohai system, students take leadership and ownership of the group as they learn traditional taiko songs and create new ones.

Mighty Drumming Club

FALL CLASSES RESUME SEPT 27th!

Youth Classes meet weekly on Fridays 6:oopm to 8:00pm

If you are brand new, please email the instructor to arrange a drop-in visit and pathway to classes: mcsmith@taikoartsmidwest.org.

Sign up for classes: Click +CLASSES, Click CLASS CALENDAR AND RESERVATIONS, scroll to the class date and reserve your class with your PUNCHPASS

Your Instructor mcsmith@taikoartsmidwest.org

Megan Chao Smith feels taiko is a way to connect with their ancestors. They are Asian American and queer,

creating space for youth of all backgrounds to learn a high level of taiko skill, and share Japanese and Asian culture.

They are also an experienced youth mental health nurse.