63rd Annual Conference

San Francisco Taiko Dojo

The history of Taiko is interwoven in the fabric of Japanese history.  Regarded as sacred since ancient times, the drum was first used to drive away evil spirits and pests harmful to crops.  It was believed that by imitating the sound of thunder, the spirit of rain would be forced into action.  At harvest time, Taiko was joyfully played in thanks for a bountiful crop.  Today, this spiritual aspect of Taiko has faded with the modernization of Japan.  What was once an integral part of daily life is now just a festival relic. 

With the dedication of a small number of Taiko masters and enthusiasts, it has been again popularized and is played in festivals throughout the world. 

In the last decade, Taiko enthusiasts, Seiichi Tanaka and the San Francisco Taiko Dojo have redeveloped Taiko from its primitive folk art roots to a powerful, sophisticated synthesis of rhythm, harmony, and body movement.  Today, it is a rigorous mental, physical, and martial arts training combined with musical talent to form a unique, resonant style. 

This event is included in the five-day Institute and Conference package or the three-day Conference registration.