TaikOn Stage through Europe
31 de October de 2024
When I watch non-professional taiko groups perform, I often notice a lack of stage presence. Being on stage, performing for an audience, managing individual and group energy, conveying emotions, and spreading excitement are areas that can make a big difference.
It took me time to study, read, and learn to adapt the exercises and techniques I used in dramatic arts as an actress to help my taiko students understand the difference between being truly present on stage and simply being on stage. Step by step, I deepened each exercise. Some worked better than others, but I saw significant changes each time we practiced them. Through trial and error, the TaikOnStage Workshop was born.
The first time I presented it internationally was at the Scottish Taiko Festival, where it had positive results. Although I felt insecure speaking in a language that isn’t my own, I think there were aspects that worked well and others that could be improved. Following this experience, I was invited by other taiko groups to share my ideas, and thus the first European tour of TaikOnStage was born.
October 5–6, 2024
YOROKAI Group, Belgium.
Thanks to Annick and Egon for inviting me and for their trust during these two days of intensive workshops. We were able to work on our stage presence, explore the theatricality of taiko, and even refine some technique in the naname style. The organization was incredible, and the care and kindness they showed made it a pleasure to work with all of their students. You are an amazing team, and I hope you continue playing and practicing taiko with love and passion.
It took me time to study, read, and learn to adapt the exercises and techniques I used in dramatic arts as an actress to help my taiko students understand the difference between being truly present on stage and simply being on stage. Step by step, I deepened each exercise. Some worked better than others, but I saw significant changes each time we practiced them. Through trial and error, the TaikOnStage Workshop was born.
The first time I presented it internationally was at the Scottish Taiko Festival, where it had positive results. Although I felt insecure speaking in a language that isn’t my own, I think there were aspects that worked well and others that could be improved. Following this experience, I was invited by other taiko groups to share my ideas, and thus the first European tour of TaikOnStage was born.
October 5–6, 2024
YOROKAI Group, Belgium.
Thanks to Annick and Egon for inviting me and for their trust during these two days of intensive workshops. We were able to work on our stage presence, explore the theatricality of taiko, and even refine some technique in the naname style. The organization was incredible, and the care and kindness they showed made it a pleasure to work with all of their students. You are an amazing team, and I hope you continue playing and practicing taiko with love and passion.
October 12–13, 2024
House of Circles Taiko School, The Netherlands.
I met Erwin in 2021+1 at the Euro Taiko Expo, and when his group, Circle Percussion, took the stage, I was blown away. Their compositions, energy, and the joy and love they transmitted through their music were unforgettable, a true whirlwind of musicality. Erwin later came to Spain to give workshops and invited me to visit Holland. The 10 hours of workshops we experienced over the weekend were incredible, sharing new techniques, styles, and compositions. Thank you, Erwin, for letting me be part of your group, family, and friends.
October 19, 2024
Various groups from Hamburg, Germany.
Several taiko players from Hamburg are living a unique and enviable experience, performing taiko in the theatrical play *Dionysos* at the Deutsches Schauspielhaus Hamburg. Being part of such a large production is a dream for many artists, and they’re living it right now. When Jonas and I met at the STF, he thought it would be a great idea to offer my TaikOnStage workshop to all these taiko players who are part of the play, so he invited me to Hamburg. We shared a rehearsal and five intensive hours of workshop. It was an honor to work with you all, and I’m grateful for the trust and the wonderful feedback I received. Congratulations to everyone, and keep enjoying the stage!
I have felt incredibly lucky these past days; I love my work more each day. THANK YOU to everyone—see you on stage.
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