Taiko, the traditional Japanese drumming art form, captivates audiences with its powerful rhythms, dynamic movements, and profound cultural roots. Under the expert instruction of Kenny Endo and the talented team from the Taiko Center of the Pacific, participants will have the chance to delve into the fundamentals of Taiko, master advanced techniques, and even engage in performance training.

Kapi‘olani Community College is offering a diverse range of Taiko classes tailored to accommodate everyone, from beginners to seasoned drummers.

Open to the public through registration.

All courses instructed by Taiko Center of the Pacific, led by Kenny Endo

Uchikomi Practice (ART3015)

Practice which emphasizes striking technique and physicality through the repetition of simple yet fundamental rhythms, enhancing form, strength, endurance, rhythmic ability, and mental fortitude.

September 10 – October 22 • Tuesday • 5:00 – 5:50 pm • Instructor: Taiko Center of the Pacific • Location: Kapiʻolani Community College, Chapel  • $100.00 • No class on October 1. Required Supplies: Drumsticks (available for purchase on 1st day of class) Youth Drumsticks: $28, $30, $32 (size and wood variation). Adult Drumsticks: $30, $32 (size and wood variation). Earplugs: $3 (optional)

Adult Beginning I Taiko (ART3007)

An introductory class that teaches the fundamentals of Taiko drumming, including proper grip, stance, form, terminology and etiquette specific to Taiko, and simple practice pieces.

September 8 – October 20 • Sunday • 12:00 – 12:50 pm • Instructor: Taiko Center of the Pacific • Location: Kapiʻolani Community College, Chapel  • $150.00 • No class on September 29. Required supplies: Drumsticks (available for purchase on 1st day of class) Adult Drumsticks: $30, $32 (size and wood variation) Earplugs: $3 (optional)

Adult Beginning I Taiko “Nice & Easy” (ART3016)

An introductory class that teaches the fundamentals of Taiko drumming in an accessible way including proper grip, stance, form, Japanese terminology, etiquette, and simple practice pieces.

September 10 – October 22 • Tuesday • 6:00 – 6:50 pm • Instructor: Taiko Center of the Pacific • Location: Kapiʻolani Community College, Chapel  • $150.00 • No class on October 1. Required supplies: Drumsticks (available for purchase on 1st day of class) Adult Drumsticks: $30, $32 (size and wood variation) Earplugs: $3 (optional)

Adult Beginning I Taiko (In Japanese) (ART3003)

An introductory class that teaches the fundamentals of Taiko drumming (In Japanese), including proper grip, stance, form, and simple practice pieces.

September 8 – October 20 • Sunday • 11:00 – 11:50 am • Instructor: Taiko Center of the Pacific • Location: Kapiʻolani Community College, Chapel  • $150.00 • No class on September 29. Required supplies: Drumsticks (available for purchase on 1st day of class) Adult Drumsticks: $30, $32 (size and wood variation) Earplugs: $3 (optional)

Adult Beginning II Taiko (ART3023)

Expand on the Taiko foundations learned in Beginning I by integrating movements into the rhythms and begin “soloing”. For ages 15 years and older.

September 12 – October 24 • Thursday • 6:00 – 6:50 pm • Instructor: Taiko Center of the Pacific • Location: Kapiʻolani Community College, Chapel  • $150.00 • No class on October 3. Required supplies: Drumsticks (available for purchase on 1st day of class) Adult Drumsticks: $30, $32 (size and wood variation) Earplugs: $3 (optional)

Adult Intermediate Taiko (ART3024)

Enhance your musicality and drumming skills with challenging pieces, explore dynamic movement and soloing, and enjoy the camaraderie of Taiko drumming. For ages 15 years and older.

September 12 – October 24 • Thursday • 7:00 – 7:50 pm • Instructor: Taiko Center of the Pacific • Location: Kapiʻolani Community College, Chapel  • $150.00 • No class on October 3. Required supplies: Drumsticks (available for purchase on 1st day of class). Adult Drumsticks: $30, $32 (size and wood variation). Earplugs: $3 (optional)

Adult Hāna Hachijo Taiko (ART3005)

Learn the Hachijo island style of drumming combined with Hāna Hachijo known for its graceful yet powerful rhythms.

September 8 – October 20 • Sunday • 11:00 – 11:50 am • Instructor: Taiko Center of the Pacific • Location: Kapiʻolani Community College, Chapel  • $150.00 • No class on September 29. Required supplies: Drumsticks (available for purchase on 1st day of class) Adult Drumsticks: $30, $32 (size and wood variation) Earplugs: $3 (optional)

Adult Taiko for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (ART3013)

FEEL the VIBRATIONS! Taiko resonates deeply within the body, making it an ideal musical instrument for the Deaf Community to experience.

September 10 – October 22 • Tuesday • 4:00 – 4:50 pm • Instructor: Taiko Center of the Pacific • Location: Kapiʻolani Community College, Chapel  • $150.00 • No class on October 1. Required supplies: Drumsticks (available for purchase on 1st day of class) Adult Drumsticks: $30, $32 (size and wood variation) Earplugs: $3 (optional)

Odaiko (Big Drum) for Beginners (ART3022)

Learn the basic rhythms, movements, and philosophy behind the Odaiko, the largest drum in a Taiko ensemble.

September 12 – October 24 • Thursday • 5:00 – 5:50 pm • Instructor: Taiko Center of the Pacific • Location: Kapiʻolani Community College, Chapel  • $150.00 • No class on October 3. Required supplies: Drumsticks: available for purchase on the 1st day of class. Adult Odaiko Drumsticks: $50, $55 (size and wood variation). Earplugs, $3 (optional).

Adult Taiko Performance Training (ART3018)

Preparation for stage performance includes repertoire, advanced skills, movement, stage awareness, costuming, and equipment care. INSTRUCTOR’S PERMISSION REQUIRED FOR ENROLLMENT. Contact Chizuko Endo via email at taikoarts@gmail.com or call (808) 737-7236.

September 10 – October 22 • Tuesday • 7:00 – 7:50 pm • Instructor: Taiko Center of the Pacific • Location: Kapiʻolani Community College, Chapel  • $150.00 • No class on October 1. Required Supplies: Drumsticks (available for purchase on the 1st day of instruction) Adult Drumsticks: $30, $32 (size and wood variation). Earplugs: $3 (optional).

Adult Taiko Performing Ensemble (ART3030)

Enhanced technique, form, and performance skills of traditional and contemporary drumming with intense class sessions leading to opportunities to perform. INSTRUCTOR’S PERMISSION REQUIRED FOR ENROLLMENT. Contact Chizuko Endo via email at taikoarts@gmail.com or call (808) 737-7236.

WHEN REGISTERING FOR THIS COURSE, YOU MUST SIGN UP FOR THE ADULT TAIKO PERFORMING ENSEMBLE LAB: ART3031.

September 12 – October 24 • Thursday • 8:00 – 9:30 pm • Instructor: Taiko Center of the Pacific • Location: Kapiʻolani Community College, Chapel  • $150.00 • No class on October 3. Required Supplies: Drumsticks (available for purchase on 1st day of class). Adult Drumsticks: $30, $32 (size and wood variation). Ear Plugs: $3 (optional).

Adult Taiko Performing Ensemble Lab (ART3031)

Practice lab to improve technique, skill, and form in preparation for performance. INSTRUCTOR’S PERMISSION REQUIRED FOR ENROLLMENT. Contact Chizuko Endo via email at taikoarts@gmail.com or call (808) 737-7236.

WHEN REGISTERING FOR THIS LAB, YOU MUST SIGN UP FOR THE ADULT TAIKO PERFORMANCE ENSEMBLE: ART3030.

September 10 – October 22 • Tuesday • 8:00 – 9:30 pm • Instructor: Taiko Center of the Pacific • Location: Kapiʻolani Community College, Chapel  • $75.00 • No class on October 1. Required Supplies: Drumsticks (available for purchase on 1st day of class). Adult Drumsticks: $30, $32 (size and wood variation). Ear Plugs: $3 (optional).

Adult Bon Taiko (ART3020)

Learn basic rhythms played in Bon (summer festival honoring one’s ancestors). Drumming plus add some fancy new moves to your repertoire! Appropriate for ages 8 years old and older.

September 12 – October 24 • Thursday • 4:00 – 4:50 pm • Instructor: Taiko Center of the Pacific • Location: Kapiʻolani Community College, Chapel  • $150.00 • No class on October 3. Required supplies: Drumsticks (available for purchase on 1st day of class) Adult Drumsticks: $30, $32 (size and wood variation), Teen and Youth Drumsticks: $28, $30, $32. Earplugs: $3 (optional)

Teens & Kapiʻolani Community College Students – Beginning I Taiko (ART3008)

An introductory class that teaches the fundamentals of Taiko drumming, including proper grip, stance, form, terminology and etiquette specific to Taiko, and simple practice pieces.

September 8 – October 20 • Sunday • 12:00 – 12:50 pm • Instructor: Taiko Center of the Pacific • Location: Kapiʻolani Community College, Chapel  • $120.00 • No class on September 29. Required supplies: Drumsticks (available for purchase on 1st day of class) Teens and Kapi’olani CC Students Drumsticks: $28, $30, $32 (size and wood variation) Earplugs: $3 (optional)

Teens & Kapiʻolani Community College Students – Beginning I Taiko “Nice & Easy” (ART3017)

An introductory class that teaches the fundamentals of Taiko drumming in an accessible way including proper grip, stance, form, Japanese terminology, etiquette, and simple practice pieces.

September 10 – October 22 • Tuesday • 6:00 – 6:50 pm • Instructor: Taiko Center of the Pacific • Location: Kapiʻolani Community College, Chapel  • $120.00 • No class on October 1. Required supplies: Drumsticks (available for purchase on 1st day of class) Teens and Kapi’olani CC Students Drumsticks: $28, $30, $32 (size and wood variation) Earplugs: $3 (optional)

Teens & Kapiʻolani Community College Students – Hāna Hachijo Taiko (ART3006)

Learn the Hachijo island style of drumming combined with Hāna Hachijo known for its graceful yet powerful rhythms.

September 8 – October 20 • Sunday • 11:00 – 11:50 am • Instructor: Taiko Center of the Pacific • Location: Kapiʻolani Community College, Chapel  • $120.00 • No class on September 29. Required supplies: Drumsticks (available for purchase on 1st day of class) Teens and Kapi’olani CC Students Drumsticks: $28, $30, $32 (size and wood variation) Earplugs: $3 (optional)

Teens & Kapiʻolani Community College Students – Beginning I Taiko (In Japanese) (ART3004)

An introductory class that teaches the fundamentals of Taiko drumming (In Japanese), including proper grip, stance, form, and simple practice pieces.

September 8 – October 20 • Sunday • 11:00 – 11:50 am • Instructor: Taiko Center of the Pacific • Location: Kapiʻolani Community College, Chapel  • $120.00 • No class on September 29. Required supplies: Drumsticks (available for purchase on 1st day of class) Teens and Kapi’olani CC Students Drumsticks: $28, $30, $32 (size and wood variation) Earplugs: $3 (optional)

Teens & Kapiʻolani Community College Students – Taiko for Deaf and Hard of Hearing (ART3014)

FEEL the VIBRATIONS! Taiko resonates deeply within the body, making it an ideal musical instrument for the Deaf Community to experience.

September 10 – October 22 • Tuesday • 4:00 – 4:50 pm • Instructor: Taiko Center of the Pacific • Location: Kapiʻolani Community College, Chapel  • $120.00 • No class on October 1. Required supplies: Drumsticks (available for purchase on 1st day of class) Teens and Kapi’olani CC Students Drumsticks: $28, $30, $32 (size and wood variation) Earplugs: $3 (optional)

Youth & Kapi’olani CC Students – Bon Taiko (ART3021)

Learn basic rhythms played in Bon (summer festival honoring one’s ancestors) Drumming plus add some fancy new moves to your repertoire! For ages 8 – 17 years of age and Kapi’olani CC Students.

September 12 – October 24 • Thursday • 4:00 – 4:50 pm • Instructor: Taiko Center of the Pacific • Location: Kapiʻolani Community College, Chapel  • $120.00 • No class on October 3. Required supplies: Drumsticks (available for purchase on 1st day of class) Youth Drumsticks: $28, $30, $32 (size and wood variation) Earplugs: $3 (optional), Teen Drumsticks: $28, $30, $32. Earplugs: $3 (optional), and Kapi‘olani CC Students: $28, $30, $32, Earplugs: $3 (optional).

Youth (ages 6-15) Beginning I Taiko (ART3009)

Learn the basics of Taiko drumming in a fun and creative way, including Japanese terminology and etiquette specific to Taiko, and simple practice pieces.

September 8 – October 20 • Sunday • 1:00 – 1:50 pm • Instructor: Taiko Center of the Pacific • Location: Kapiʻolani Community College, Chapel  • $120.00 • No class on September 29. Required supplies: Drumsticks (available for purchase on 1st day of class) Youth Drumsticks: $28, $30, $32 ( size and wood variation) Earplugs: $3 (optional)

Youth (ages 6-15) Beginning II Taiko (ART3010)

Polish and build the basics of Taiko drumming, Japanese terminology and etiquette specific to Taiko, and simple practice pieces.

September 8 – October 20 • Sunday • 2:00 – 2:50 pm • Instructor: Taiko Center of the Pacific • Location: Kapiʻolani Community College, Chapel  • $120.00 • No class on September 29. Required supplies: Drumsticks (available for purchase on 1st day of class) Youth Drumsticks: $28, $30, $32 ( size and wood variation) Earplugs: $3 (optional)

Youth (ages 6-15) Intermediate Taiko (ART3011)

Enhance musicality, refine performance pieces, explore dynamic movement and soloing, developing more complex sticking and musical patterns, teamwork, and soloing.

September 8 – October 20 • Sunday • 3:00 – 3:50 pm • Instructor: Taiko Center of the Pacific • Location: Kapiʻolani Community College, Chapel  • $120.00 • No class on September 29. Required supplies: Drumsticks (available for purchase on 1st day of class) Youth Drumsticks: $28, $30, $32 ( size and wood variation) Earplugs: $3 (optional)

Youth (ages 6-15) Taiko Performing Ensemble (ART3012)

Preparation of stage performance includes repertoire, advanced skills, movement, stage awareness, costuming, and equipment care. INSTRUCTOR’S PERMISSION REQUIRED FOR ENROLLMENT. Contact Chizuko Endo via email at taikoarts@gmail.com or call (808) 737-7236.

September 8 – October 20 • Sunday • 4:00 – 5:50 pm • Instructor: Taiko Center of the Pacific • Location: Kapiʻolani Community College, Chapel  • $210.00 • No class on September 29. Required supplies: Drumsticks (available for purchase on 1st day of class) Youth Drumsticks: $28, $30, $32 ( size and wood variation) Earplugs: $3 (optional)

Taiko Tots (ART3001)

A music education parent-child bonding experience in a group-based environment utilizing song, movement, games, and fun activities. One tot ages 2-4 and one adult together.

September 8 – October 29 • Sunday • 9:00 – 9:45 am • Instructor: Taiko Center of the Pacific • Location: Kapiʻolani Community College, Chapel  • $150.00 • No class on September 29 • Required supplies: Drumsticks (available for purchase on 1st day of class) Tots Drumsticks: $10, $15, $20 (size and wood variation) Adult Drumsticks: $30, $32 (size and wood variation) Earplugs: $3 (optional)

Family Taiko (ART3002)

Youth ages with their parent will learn the basics of taiko drumming in a nurturing environment through games, songs, and fun activities. One youth ages 5-8 and one adult together.

September 8 – October 20 • Sunday • 10:00 – 10:50 am • Instructor: Taiko Center of the Pacific • Location: Kapiʻolani Community College, Chapel  • $210.00 • No class on September 29. Required supplies: Drumsticks (available for purchase on 1st day of class) Youth Drumsticks: $28, $30, $32 (size and wood variation) Adult Drumsticks: $30, $32 (size and wood variation) Earplugs: $3 (optional)

Subscribe to our e-newsletter below to receive the latest on our non-credit course offerings.