The MIGHTY DRUMMING CLUB is a YOUTH-LED group bringing Taiko to Twin Cities’ BIPOC, queer and homeless youth, including a rising star performing youth ensemble.
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 is working like crazy to prepare for their 3-month 2025 SUMMER TOUR, and produce the first ever Asian Culture Night at Andersen Middle School.
Mighty Drumming Club
Practice EVERY FRIDAY night
Youth Classes meet weekly on Fridays 6:oopm to 9:00PM (general youth class 6-7pm; performing group 7-9pm)
If you are brand new, please email the instructor to arrange a drop-in visit/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
Director: mcsmith@taikoartsmidwest.org
Taiko is connection with ancestors. Asian American and queer, and a youth psychiatric nurse, Chao Smith creates space for youth of all backgrounds to learn a high levels of self care, taiko skill, and Japanese and Asian culture.
Providing accessibility and therapeutic programming at Andersen Middle School 2020-present.
Performing at Ordway Center for Performing Arts, May 12, 2024