EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS
The mission of Tsukasa Taiko at JASC is to preserve and pass on the traditional concepts of taiko as a cultural legacy and to utilize these concepts in expanding and evolving the taiko form. Tsukasa Taiko at JASC maintains an international profile through presenting high quality performances overseas, but its local focus continues to be educational programming. These programs are designed not only to teach people about taiko, but also to advance an understanding and appreciation of the cultural arts.
A professional staff of artists visits schools to present cultural education programs that include performances on taiko, shamisen (three-stringed lute), and shinobue (Japanese flute). An accompanying lecture stresses the important connection this music has to history and heritage. On-site workshops during school hours that offer a hands-on experience for students to try taiko are also popular.
Maple Avenue Elementary School, IL
All performances and lecture presentations are customized to the students' grade levels, from pre-school through university. A small ensemble of three performers to the largest group of eight to ten musicians can be available to entertain and educate audiences of all ages. In the Chicagoland area, visits have been made to over 100 public and private elementary and high schools, plus major colleges and universities. Overnight trips to neighboring states have included visits to schools that recognize the group as a leader in the taiko drumming culture of the Midwest.
For further information about this unique opportunity to present taiko culture as a meaningful educational experience, please contact joanne@airmw.org.
"Drumming at the Montessori school" from the local news paper: Forest Park Review, IL 2009
Avalon, WI
Letters from Schools
These are a few exmples of wonderful letters from school kids to TSUKASA TAIKO
Thank you note from Oak Park River Forest High School, 2010.
Thank you note from Oak Park River Forest High School, 2009.
Letters from Chicago Futabakai Japanese School.
