Sadly, we are unable to continue using our Emeryville location for classes and workshops due to occupancy permit issues. Until we find an alternate space we have reluctantly suspended our classes and lecture/demo sessions. See below for details and please check our website for updates on our situation.

We haven't quit drumming entirely. We will be holding four classes in November and a special Yatai Bayashi workshop on November 24 with Ringtaro Tateishi, former member of Ondekoza. These classes will be held in the basement of the First Congregational Church of Oakland and are for current Emeryville Taiko students of all levels, but we are not accepting new students until further notice.

Three years ago, Emeryville Taiko director Susan Horn made a dream come true; she bought a building to use as a permanent dojo. The former coffee roasting warehouse had beautiful high ceilings, skylights, and everything we needed. Owning a building is a luxury enjoyed by only a handful of taiko groups around the world.

Unfortunately, the luxury was short lived. In order to complete building renovations required by the city we would have needed to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars, which was beyond our capacity. Our temporary occupancy permit has run out and we cannot continue using the building for classes and workshops.

We are currently seeking a temporary or permanent location to hold classes. Do you know of a space that might fit our needs? Our ideal space is at least 1000 square feet, plus drum storage space (preferably at least 1600 square feet), is not too far from Emeryville, and is either soundproof or has no neighbors on evenings and weekends.

We were honored to have Kazuaki Tomida, formerly of Kodo, perform with us in concert on October 18th at the First Congregational Church of Oakland. True to Emeryville Taiko's characteristic style, the energy was high and the thunder of drums filled the church. We even played the opening and closing numbers with the church's gospel choir. Tomida-san's talents were central to the show and its success: he opened the concert with a powerful odaiko solo, improvised a song, played the shamisen, and taught us one of his taiko compositions to perform with him. We thank our friends who attended the show. For those who missed it, a few photos are below.

Photos by Richard Man.	Photos by Vanessa Sam.

Emeryville Taiko is a San Francisco Bay Area taiko group providing traditional Japanese drumming classes and performances. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Donations are tax-deductible and your financial support is appreciated. You can donate online at our website.