I’d never heard of Taiko in 1990, but I loved going to see dance performances at Sadlers Wells, and was part of a community dance group. I was also fascinated with the martial arts, attended Tai Chi and Karate classes. So when I saw ‘Japanese Taiko group Kodo’ advertised, I was more than ready for the experience.
I bought tickets for myself and my mum, and off we trouped with absolutely no idea what to expect. As with almost all Taiko performances I’ve ever had the privilege to see since, it touched a place inside that is profoundly deep and primal. The power of that performance, and the emotional resonance remains with me today, it was like an awakening. In the 30 years since that first performance, I have seen many amazing Taiko performers, and can’t ever remember leaving disappointed.
I had longed to ‘have a go’ myself for so many years, that when we moved to Devon in 2009 and spotted an advert for Taiko classes in Exeter, I didn’t hesitate for an instant. HJ was my first teacher, and Caroline was in my first class. I hung on to every word, every sound, every instruction, but it was hard. In my own time, I have developed my skills, and learning and playing a Taiko piece is really thrilling. 11 years on (I haven’t always been able to attend classes but have a good few years under my belt now) I love it just as much, and regard it as one of my defining passions. It still scares me to death to perform in public, but playing at Exeter Chiefs matches has been the icing on the cake. So, I’d like to share (virtually!) this wonderful cake, made for me by my ‘sister in law’, Deirdre, on the occasion of my 60th birthday. It makes me really happy that other people see me as a Taiko player/enthusiast.
Looking forward to following more of my Taiko Journey in years to come!