About MT: What is Manhattan Taiko?
Manhattan Taiko is a group dedicated to the art of traditional Japanese Taiko drumming. Our group consists of a mixture of both new and seasoned drummers. The group practices regularly and occasionally performs at celebrations and events around NYC and beyond.
History of Manhattan Taiko
Manhattan Taiko was formed around 2001 by Janet Youngblood. The ensemble has
performed at the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the Chinese Scholar Garden, Columbia
University, Teachers College, Pace University, Hunter College, the NYC Marathon, the
St Lukes Half Marathon in Allentown PA and more.
The ensemble has performed at wedding receptions, corporate functions, bat mitzvah
events, fund raising events and many others.
The ensemble usually performs with four to six drummers in a variety of traditional and
contemporary taiko styles.
The Practices
Manhattan Taiko meets weekly to practice at Teacher College in Manhattan, NY.
We start with traditional Japanese “Radio Exercise” and meditation, and then warm up with basic drum strikes and rhythm exercises.
Next we rehearse our repertoire of songs, practicing and polishing those that are known to all members, and teaching new songs to each other as new members join or new and exciting pieces to play are discovered.
And finally we cool down with a final Radio Exercise and say Good Night and Arigatou Gozaimashita!
Rehearsal space and practice drum availability are somewhat limited, but we are always interested in new membership! if you are interested in participating, reach out to us via the information on our Contact Page.
(Note – Practices are not currently occurring – we are all social distancing!)
The Gigs
Manhattan Taiko will perform throughout the year at various events! We have a few events that we perform at every year, and other requests are considered on an individual basis.
If you are interested in having Manhattan Taiko perform at your event, reach out to us via the information on our Contact Page.
Manhattan Taiko 