Spring News
Author: ICle
Date: Mon 27 Oct 2025
From Ian Cleworth, Artistic Director Taikoz / Percussion Australia…
I’m sure I’m not alone in feeling the turbulence of world affairs, which can leave many of us feeling unsettled, as uncertainty and conflict seem to shape the headlines each day. Yet, amidst this unease, there is a quiet but powerful source of hope: the strong sense of community spirit around the dojo and within our ATA classes. In the way we support one another and experience joy in coming together to make music, we find reason to believe in meaningful change. Despite the challenges that face us in daily life, I’m continually reminded of the power of rhythm and how its vibrations can bring us together.
Here are a few fabulous things happening within our community…
• NEW! DIGITAL DOJO IS LIVE!
• DOJO LIVE 2
• GO TEAM USA!
• INTRODUCING ATA MEMBERS SUZANNE & VIPASHA
________________________________________________________
NEW! DIGITAL DOJO IS LIVE!
During the Covid years, Taikoz – like all of us – experienced lengthy periods of interruption to life as we knew it. Without performances or in-person teaching, we decided to keep creatively engaged by putting together a raft of instructional videos. These have recently been collated into a fully-fledged taiko instructional website called Digital Dojo. It covers topics like Hachijo Basics, Chappa and Stagecraft (among others), plus a number of pieces – from Beginner to Advanced level – that can be learned and performed.
________________________________________________________
NEW! DIGITAL DOJO IS LIVE!
During the Covid years, Taikoz – like all of us – experienced lengthy periods of interruption to life as we knew it. Without performances or in-person teaching, we decided to keep creatively engaged by putting together a raft of instructional videos. These have recently been collated into a fully-fledged taiko instructional website called Digital Dojo. It covers topics like Hachijo Basics, Chappa and Stagecraft (among others), plus a number of pieces – from Beginner to Advanced level – that can be learned and performed.
We plan to add to the collection of videos over time, so have a look around the Digital Dojo website in its first iteration and see what you think!
https://australiantaikoacademy.com.au/
https://australiantaikoacademy.com.au/
_______________________________________________________
DOJO LIVE 2
DOJO LIVE 2
It’s been a thrill to present our Dojo Live series – and this past weekend saw the full Taikoz ensemble present a dynamic and varied program of works. We scheduled a third show for this Saturday after both shows sold out very quickly, months ago! Thank you to everyone who purchased a ticket and helped make this series such a great success.
One of the perks of performing in our own dojo is that all our instruments are already there! No need to negotiate staircases, elevators, or 8-tonne trucks – meaning we could bring you a unique program that we wouldn’t normally take on tour.
Dojo Live 2 Taikoz ‘In Full Flight’ features a vibrant mix of works by members of the ensemble, including a piece from 2003 that most of our current performers have never had the chance to play (Resounding Bell), a brand-new composition composed especially for Dojo Live 2 (The Dragon), and a veritable tour de force for all seven of our Odaiko – the grand drums (Pearl)!
Speaking of our Odaiko – did you know that Taikoz holds the largest collection of taiko in the Southern Hemisphere? Most of our instruments are handcrafted by two of Japan’s most venerable taiko makers: the Asano Taiko Company, crafting since 1609(!) and Miyamoto Unosuke Shoten, since 1861(!). We’re proud to have a relationship with these historic family companies – their beautifully made instruments form a big part of our ensemble sound. And not to mention – how lucky are our ATA members are to have the opportunity to play on such beautiful taiko?!
Speaking of our Odaiko – did you know that Taikoz holds the largest collection of taiko in the Southern Hemisphere? Most of our instruments are handcrafted by two of Japan’s most venerable taiko makers: the Asano Taiko Company, crafting since 1609(!) and Miyamoto Unosuke Shoten, since 1861(!). We’re proud to have a relationship with these historic family companies – their beautifully made instruments form a big part of our ensemble sound. And not to mention – how lucky are our ATA members are to have the opportunity to play on such beautiful taiko?!
Our third concert in the series – Dojo Live 3 '2π Radians' features ATA’s community ensemble Taiko no Wa. There are a few tickets left – book here…
https://taikoz.com/courses/dojo-live-3-taiko-no-wa-2-radians-term-4-2025
_______________________________________________________________________
GO TEAM USA!
_______________________________________________________________________
GO TEAM USA!
Since 2023, Taikoz has hosted students from Philadelphia’s Swarthmore College for a residency of 7-10 weeks focusing on intensive study of, taiko, shinobue, Onikenbai (traditional Japanese dance and music), music theory and ensemble playing.
During June and July, Iz Lee, Laura Huang, Kieran Mulligan, and Bonji Onuma – affectionately dubbed Team USA version 3 – dedicated themselves to rigorous training in the dojo, practicing every day of the week. They even took part in what is known in Japan as asa-keiko – early morning practice. The four of them pushed themselves to wake up early and train from 6:00 to 8:00am 3-4 days a week.
The benefits of asa-keiko are numerous. Morning training not only builds stamina and enhances technique but also reflects a deep commitment to the art form. Team USA’s final recital – proudly supported by members of our ATA community (thank you!) – was a powerful testament to their hard work and dedication.
The benefits of asa-keiko are numerous. Morning training not only builds stamina and enhances technique but also reflects a deep commitment to the art form. Team USA’s final recital – proudly supported by members of our ATA community (thank you!) – was a powerful testament to their hard work and dedication.
Following the two-day Winter Intensive, Iz, Laura, Kieran and Bonji departed for Japan to continue their taiko studies. Over the subsequent three weeks they visited Hachijo Island to learn from the originators of the Hachijo taiko style, travelled to Tokyo for Miyake training with the style’s original masters, received instruction form internationally renowned taiko artist Eitetsu Hayashi, and trained with Onikenbai masters in Iwasaki, Iwate Prefecture.
During this period, they reunited with members of the Sydney Onikenbai Club who also attended training sessions with Iwasaki Onikenbai Hozonkai and the associated Kitakami Michinoku Geino Matsuri (street festival) in early August – marking the group’s first return to the festival since the Covid pandemic hiatus.
We look forward to hosting Team USA v4 in 2026!
_______________________________________________
INTRODUCING ATA MEMBERS SUZANNE & VIPASHA
Suzanne Hawley and Vipasha Mukherjee have been valued members of the Australian Taiko Academy for many years. Both are active participants in our community – regularly attending Sunday Elements II class, joining our Intensive weekend workshops, and showing their support by coming to Taikoz concerts.
_______________________________________________
INTRODUCING ATA MEMBERS SUZANNE & VIPASHA
Suzanne Hawley and Vipasha Mukherjee have been valued members of the Australian Taiko Academy for many years. Both are active participants in our community – regularly attending Sunday Elements II class, joining our Intensive weekend workshops, and showing their support by coming to Taikoz concerts.
Curious about what keeps them coming back, we asked them to share their stories…
Ian: How long have you both been playing taiko?
Suzanne: I started playing taiko when I was 68. I’m now 82. I guess that's 14 years!
Ian: Wow… you’re proof that playing taiko keeps you looking and feeling young!
Vipasha: Since 2023 for me.
Ian: What sparked your interest?
Suzanne: It all started when I was sitting on my front verandah in Glebe and [Onikenbai Club member] Maira Wilkie walked by. I guess she was only – maybe – 12 years old at the time. I asked her where she was off to and she replied, 'I'm going to Taiko". I said, “What's that?' And she said, 'It's drumming – Japanese drumming.' ”. I had never heard of it. Maira then said, "Why don't you come along and see for yourself?” She told me there was a try-out coming up. I went along… and that was that. I was hooked! Not sure what it was – the sound, the spectacle, the almost primal feeling you get when you strike a drum. I became - along with my other classmates – what the lovely Sam [Newton] describes as a 'Taiko Tragic'. So that was that!
Vipasha: After an unsuccessful attempt to teach myself how to play the violin, I wondered if there was another musical instrument that might better suit me. I had seen Taikoz live years ago and the performance had stuck with me. I signed up for a workshop and knew instantly that I had found what I wanted to learn. I went on to enrol for the full term and not only have I kept coming back, but I’ve also started doing multiple classes a week (my family and friends will attest that all my appointments and commitments revolve around my taiko classes!). I do this for so many reasons – the art form, the community, the teachers, the workout, both physical and mental.
Ian: What keeps you coming back to the ATA week after week – and year after year?!!
Suzanne: I guess I love the challenge. The memory aspect is great for my brain – and of course, the fun I have in the classes. Getting up on Sundays for the 9.30 class is the least desirable part of the deal.
Most important are the lifelong friends I have made along the way - particularly in the Sunday class – and the camaraderie of both older and younger people. And of course, the amazing teachers we have. How lucky we are to have them. Taiko has become a really special part of my life. I consider myself really fortunate that I got involved. Thank you, Maira!
Vipasha: I enjoy the physicality of playing taiko but also value the mental concentration it demands of me. It serves as my fitness routine but also my weekly meditation session. I love the challenge of learning new compositions and techniques but also the sense of accomplishment I feel each week, and I have to thank the exceptional teachers at Taikoz for this. They make the classes engaging and fun, and I always finish a class energised and looking forward to the next one. Their dedication as musicians and teachers is inspirational.
But most of all, it is the sense of belonging – being part of a committed and passionate community – that keeps me coming back week after week, year after year.
Ian: Vipasha, on a side note… I know you love travelling – what are your favourite places to visit?
Vipasha: My top five places (so far) are Antarctica, Cuba, Mongolia, Sri Lanka, and, of course, Japan. I’ve recently started contacting taiko groups when I travel as well and have joined classes in Chicago, San Francisco, and Seattle in the US, and also Austria and Hungary.
Ian: That’s’ great… visiting dojos in other places is called musha-shugyo, which is the concept of a warrior’s pilgrimage of self-development. The idea is to deepen your mind and body through rigorous independent training. So, ‘Warrior Vipasha’… good on you… that’s fantastic!
Ian:What’s your favourite taiko instrument &/or style – and why?
Suzanne: As everyone does, I started off loving the Nagado, but now I really love the Shimedaiko for its wonderful crisp sound. Favourite style – although I would be very challenged to play it now – is Miyake for its power. Also love playing Hachijo for its lyrical style. And also, the two drum sets. So I guess everything, really! So there it is. I'm hooked. Love it, love it, love it. Hope to be playing for many more years to come.
Vipasha:
I don’t have a single favourite, as I find something appealing in every taiko instrument and style. Each one offers a different energy, sound, and way of expressing myself. I especially enjoy seeing how different teachers reinterpret the same instrument, as it constantly opens up new ways of thinking about technique and performance. For me, each style and instrument becomes a unique channel for self-expression, and that variety is part of what keeps taiko so engaging.
Ian: Such great stories! Thank you, Suzanne and Vipasha for sharing.
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ATA In Concert | 14 December
14 Dec 2025
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Keep up to date with all Taikoz new by subscribing to our newsletter
What's On
ATA In Concert | 14 December
14 Dec 2025
Save the date! The entire ATA - all 10 groups! - will be performing at the annual ATA CONCERT on 14 December at the Ashfield Town Hall....
Spring News
Author: ICle
Date: Mon 27 Oct 2025
From Ian Cleworth, Artistic Director Taikoz / Percussion Australia…
I’m sure I’m not alone in feeling the turbulence of world affairs, which can leave many of us feeling unsettled, as uncertainty and conflict seem to shape the headlines each day. Yet, amidst this unease, there is a quiet but powerful source of hope: the strong sense of community spirit around the dojo and within our ATA classes. In the way we support one another and experience joy in coming together to make music, we find reason to believe in meaningful change. Despite the challenges that face us in daily life, I’m continually reminded of the power of rhythm and how its vibrations can bring us together.
Here are a few fabulous things happening within our community…
• NEW! DIGITAL DOJO IS LIVE!
• DOJO LIVE 2
• GO TEAM USA!
• INTRODUCING ATA MEMBERS SUZANNE & VIPASHA
________________________________________________________
NEW! DIGITAL DOJO IS LIVE!
During the Covid years, Taikoz – like all of us – experienced lengthy periods of interruption to life as we knew it. Without performances or in-person teaching, we decided to keep creatively engaged by putting together a raft of instructional videos. These have recently been collated into a fully-fledged taiko instructional website called Digital Dojo. It covers topics like Hachijo Basics, Chappa and Stagecraft (among others), plus a number of pieces – from Beginner to Advanced level – that can be learned and performed.
________________________________________________________
NEW! DIGITAL DOJO IS LIVE!
During the Covid years, Taikoz – like all of us – experienced lengthy periods of interruption to life as we knew it. Without performances or in-person teaching, we decided to keep creatively engaged by putting together a raft of instructional videos. These have recently been collated into a fully-fledged taiko instructional website called Digital Dojo. It covers topics like Hachijo Basics, Chappa and Stagecraft (among others), plus a number of pieces – from Beginner to Advanced level – that can be learned and performed.
We plan to add to the collection of videos over time, so have a look around the Digital Dojo website in its first iteration and see what you think!
https://australiantaikoacademy.com.au/
https://australiantaikoacademy.com.au/
_______________________________________________________
DOJO LIVE 2
DOJO LIVE 2
It’s been a thrill to present our Dojo Live series – and this past weekend saw the full Taikoz ensemble present a dynamic and varied program of works. We scheduled a third show for this Saturday after both shows sold out very quickly, months ago! Thank you to everyone who purchased a ticket and helped make this series such a great success.
One of the perks of performing in our own dojo is that all our instruments are already there! No need to negotiate staircases, elevators, or 8-tonne trucks – meaning we could bring you a unique program that we wouldn’t normally take on tour.
Dojo Live 2 Taikoz ‘In Full Flight’ features a vibrant mix of works by members of the ensemble, including a piece from 2003 that most of our current performers have never had the chance to play (Resounding Bell), a brand-new composition composed especially for Dojo Live 2 (The Dragon), and a veritable tour de force for all seven of our Odaiko – the grand drums (Pearl)!
Speaking of our Odaiko – did you know that Taikoz holds the largest collection of taiko in the Southern Hemisphere? Most of our instruments are handcrafted by two of Japan’s most venerable taiko makers: the Asano Taiko Company, crafting since 1609(!) and Miyamoto Unosuke Shoten, since 1861(!). We’re proud to have a relationship with these historic family companies – their beautifully made instruments form a big part of our ensemble sound. And not to mention – how lucky are our ATA members are to have the opportunity to play on such beautiful taiko?!
Speaking of our Odaiko – did you know that Taikoz holds the largest collection of taiko in the Southern Hemisphere? Most of our instruments are handcrafted by two of Japan’s most venerable taiko makers: the Asano Taiko Company, crafting since 1609(!) and Miyamoto Unosuke Shoten, since 1861(!). We’re proud to have a relationship with these historic family companies – their beautifully made instruments form a big part of our ensemble sound. And not to mention – how lucky are our ATA members are to have the opportunity to play on such beautiful taiko?!
Our third concert in the series – Dojo Live 3 '2π Radians' features ATA’s community ensemble Taiko no Wa. There are a few tickets left – book here…
https://taikoz.com/courses/dojo-live-3-taiko-no-wa-2-radians-term-4-2025
_______________________________________________________________________
GO TEAM USA!
_______________________________________________________________________
GO TEAM USA!
Since 2023, Taikoz has hosted students from Philadelphia’s Swarthmore College for a residency of 7-10 weeks focusing on intensive study of, taiko, shinobue, Onikenbai (traditional Japanese dance and music), music theory and ensemble playing.
During June and July, Iz Lee, Laura Huang, Kieran Mulligan, and Bonji Onuma – affectionately dubbed Team USA version 3 – dedicated themselves to rigorous training in the dojo, practicing every day of the week. They even took part in what is known in Japan as asa-keiko – early morning practice. The four of them pushed themselves to wake up early and train from 6:00 to 8:00am 3-4 days a week.
The benefits of asa-keiko are numerous. Morning training not only builds stamina and enhances technique but also reflects a deep commitment to the art form. Team USA’s final recital – proudly supported by members of our ATA community (thank you!) – was a powerful testament to their hard work and dedication.
The benefits of asa-keiko are numerous. Morning training not only builds stamina and enhances technique but also reflects a deep commitment to the art form. Team USA’s final recital – proudly supported by members of our ATA community (thank you!) – was a powerful testament to their hard work and dedication.
Following the two-day Winter Intensive, Iz, Laura, Kieran and Bonji departed for Japan to continue their taiko studies. Over the subsequent three weeks they visited Hachijo Island to learn from the originators of the Hachijo taiko style, travelled to Tokyo for Miyake training with the style’s original masters, received instruction form internationally renowned taiko artist Eitetsu Hayashi, and trained with Onikenbai masters in Iwasaki, Iwate Prefecture.
During this period, they reunited with members of the Sydney Onikenbai Club who also attended training sessions with Iwasaki Onikenbai Hozonkai and the associated Kitakami Michinoku Geino Matsuri (street festival) in early August – marking the group’s first return to the festival since the Covid pandemic hiatus.
We look forward to hosting Team USA v4 in 2026!
_______________________________________________
INTRODUCING ATA MEMBERS SUZANNE & VIPASHA
Suzanne Hawley and Vipasha Mukherjee have been valued members of the Australian Taiko Academy for many years. Both are active participants in our community – regularly attending Sunday Elements II class, joining our Intensive weekend workshops, and showing their support by coming to Taikoz concerts.
_______________________________________________
INTRODUCING ATA MEMBERS SUZANNE & VIPASHA
Suzanne Hawley and Vipasha Mukherjee have been valued members of the Australian Taiko Academy for many years. Both are active participants in our community – regularly attending Sunday Elements II class, joining our Intensive weekend workshops, and showing their support by coming to Taikoz concerts.
Curious about what keeps them coming back, we asked them to share their stories…
Ian: How long have you both been playing taiko?
Suzanne: I started playing taiko when I was 68. I’m now 82. I guess that's 14 years!
Ian: Wow… you’re proof that playing taiko keeps you looking and feeling young!
Vipasha: Since 2023 for me.
Ian: What sparked your interest?
Suzanne: It all started when I was sitting on my front verandah in Glebe and [Onikenbai Club member] Maira Wilkie walked by. I guess she was only – maybe – 12 years old at the time. I asked her where she was off to and she replied, 'I'm going to Taiko". I said, “What's that?' And she said, 'It's drumming – Japanese drumming.' ”. I had never heard of it. Maira then said, "Why don't you come along and see for yourself?” She told me there was a try-out coming up. I went along… and that was that. I was hooked! Not sure what it was – the sound, the spectacle, the almost primal feeling you get when you strike a drum. I became - along with my other classmates – what the lovely Sam [Newton] describes as a 'Taiko Tragic'. So that was that!
Vipasha: After an unsuccessful attempt to teach myself how to play the violin, I wondered if there was another musical instrument that might better suit me. I had seen Taikoz live years ago and the performance had stuck with me. I signed up for a workshop and knew instantly that I had found what I wanted to learn. I went on to enrol for the full term and not only have I kept coming back, but I’ve also started doing multiple classes a week (my family and friends will attest that all my appointments and commitments revolve around my taiko classes!). I do this for so many reasons – the art form, the community, the teachers, the workout, both physical and mental.
Ian: What keeps you coming back to the ATA week after week – and year after year?!!
Suzanne: I guess I love the challenge. The memory aspect is great for my brain – and of course, the fun I have in the classes. Getting up on Sundays for the 9.30 class is the least desirable part of the deal.
Most important are the lifelong friends I have made along the way - particularly in the Sunday class – and the camaraderie of both older and younger people. And of course, the amazing teachers we have. How lucky we are to have them. Taiko has become a really special part of my life. I consider myself really fortunate that I got involved. Thank you, Maira!
Vipasha: I enjoy the physicality of playing taiko but also value the mental concentration it demands of me. It serves as my fitness routine but also my weekly meditation session. I love the challenge of learning new compositions and techniques but also the sense of accomplishment I feel each week, and I have to thank the exceptional teachers at Taikoz for this. They make the classes engaging and fun, and I always finish a class energised and looking forward to the next one. Their dedication as musicians and teachers is inspirational.
But most of all, it is the sense of belonging – being part of a committed and passionate community – that keeps me coming back week after week, year after year.
Ian: Vipasha, on a side note… I know you love travelling – what are your favourite places to visit?
Vipasha: My top five places (so far) are Antarctica, Cuba, Mongolia, Sri Lanka, and, of course, Japan. I’ve recently started contacting taiko groups when I travel as well and have joined classes in Chicago, San Francisco, and Seattle in the US, and also Austria and Hungary.
Ian: That’s’ great… visiting dojos in other places is called musha-shugyo, which is the concept of a warrior’s pilgrimage of self-development. The idea is to deepen your mind and body through rigorous independent training. So, ‘Warrior Vipasha’… good on you… that’s fantastic!
Ian:What’s your favourite taiko instrument &/or style – and why?
Suzanne: As everyone does, I started off loving the Nagado, but now I really love the Shimedaiko for its wonderful crisp sound. Favourite style – although I would be very challenged to play it now – is Miyake for its power. Also love playing Hachijo for its lyrical style. And also, the two drum sets. So I guess everything, really! So there it is. I'm hooked. Love it, love it, love it. Hope to be playing for many more years to come.
Vipasha:
I don’t have a single favourite, as I find something appealing in every taiko instrument and style. Each one offers a different energy, sound, and way of expressing myself. I especially enjoy seeing how different teachers reinterpret the same instrument, as it constantly opens up new ways of thinking about technique and performance. For me, each style and instrument becomes a unique channel for self-expression, and that variety is part of what keeps taiko so engaging.
Ian: Such great stories! Thank you, Suzanne and Vipasha for sharing.