Taiko Classes

Want to play taiko? Come learn with us! We hold workshops and classes throughout the year at our practice space in the Bert Richman Building at the Gordon Head Recreation Centre (4105 Lambrick Way, Victoria). You can also request a private group workshop with Uminari Taiko through our booking request form.

We typically offer:

• 3-hour workshops
• 6-week classes
• 1.5-hour drop-in sessions

Our classes are intended for participants aged 13 and up. We do not currently offer children’s classes.

2026 Taiko Course Schedule

3-Hour Taiko Workshop

No experience necessary! This workshop is a fun and energetic way to start playing taiko drums, introducing you to:

• proper taiko stance
• basic taiko technique and terminology
• a simple taiko piece

This workshop provides the foundation needed for our six-week and drop-in taiko classes.

Location, time, and cost:

Workshops typically run on Sundays from 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Bert Richman Building at the Gordon Head Recreation Centre (4105 Lambrick Way).

Cost: $75 ($65 for VNCS members or if paid in advance)

Upcoming workshop dates:

> Sunday, January 25, 2026
> Sunday, March 29, 2026
>Sunday, September 20, 2026

If there are multiple workshops listed above, please indicate the date of the workshop you are signing up for.

6-Week Taiko Class

Pre-requisite: three-hour workshop or previous taiko experience.

Our six-week taiko class is geared to those who wish to advance their knowledge of taiko. Over the course of six weeks, you’ll learn:

• proper taiko stance and hitting techniques
• different taiko rhythms
• using kiai (vocalizations)
• the importance of movement in taiko
• a full taiko song… with the opportunity to perform as an ensemble for family and friends at the final class!

The level of class may be adjusted depending on the skill level and experience of the participants.

Location, time, and cost:

Six-week classes typically run on Sundays from 2:15 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. at the Bert Richman Building at the Gordon Head Recreation Centre (4105 Lambrick Way).

Cost: $150 ($125 for VNCS members or if paid in advance)

Pre-requisite: To take the 6-Week Class – you must have attended one of our three-hour workshops or have previous taiko experience.

Upcoming Class Dates:

> Sundays, February 1 to March 15, 2026 (No class February 15)
This class will be geared towards all levels, i.e., persons who have only taken the Introductory Workshop, as well as more experienced players who have participated in our past Taiko Classes or have other taiko experience.

> Sundays, April 12 to May 24, 2026 (No class May 17)
This class will be geared towards all levels, i.e., persons who have only taken the Introductory Workshop, as well as more experienced players who have participated in our past Taiko Classes or have other taiko experience.

> Sundays, September 27 to November 8, 2026 (No class October 11)
This class will be geared towards all levels, i.e., persons who have only taken the Introductory Workshop, as well as more experienced players who have participated in our past Taiko Classes or have other taiko experience.

If there are multiple classes, please indicate which class or classes you want to attend by including the start date(s) in the sign-up form.

1.5 -Hour Drop-In Taiko – Drills, Skills & Thrills for both new & experienced taiko players

Drop-in sessions are an alternate way to continue your taiko experience. Over the course of each session, you will continue to build your taiko playing skills and stamina through drills and… practice, practice, practice!

Location, time, and cost:

Drop-in session typically run on Sundays from 2:15 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. at the Bert Richman Building at the Gordon Head Recreation Centre (4105 Lambrick Way).

You can sign up and pay for all scheduled drop-in sessions in advance (and receive a discount) or pay $20 at the door. Please register using the below Class Sign-Up Form as space is limited.

2025 Drop-In dates:

>Sundays, November 16 to December 7, 2025 – 4 Drop-in Sessions! These drop-in sessions will focus on drills to build sticking technique, form and stamina, while enjoying the spirit of taiko!

2026 Drop-In dates:

>Sundays, November 15 to December 6, 2026 – 4 Drop-in Sessions! These drop-in sessions will focus on drills to build sticking technique, form and stamina, while enjoying the spirit of taiko!

Cost: $65 if pay in advance for all 4 sessions OR $20 at the door for each session attended.

Class Sign-Up Form

Sign up for a class using the form below. Submitting the form does not guarantee your spot.

After receiving your sign-up form, we will contact you to confirm your registration and coordinate payment.

We encourage you to register early as we have limited spots available for each class or workshop. Participation in the workshop does not automatically guarantee space in the six-week class.

Refund Policy

Workshop refund requests are only eligible for credit. Credit expires one year from date of issue.

Full refunds are available for class registrations if requested at least one week before the start of the class. Requests received after that time will be credited to your next class registration.

All refunds and credits are subject to Uminari Taiko approval.

Questions?

Contact us if you have any questions about our classes and workshops.