The “intellectual” parts of taiko are as important as actual technique, even when you’re teaching virtually. We recently put together a simple activity that drives home some basic taiko skills and terms.
First, teach three basic jiuchi patterns (for anyone who doesn’t know, the jiuchi is the backbeat in taiko):
1) straight jiuchi
2) swing jiuchi
3) horse jiuchi
Once students have the hang of these, put on a metronome, and call out the name of the jiuchi you want them to play. I play along with the class when I do this, but you don’t have to. Do this for 3-4 minutes each class as part of your warm-up. Over time, you’ll be able to significantly increase the metronome speed. (You can download a sample of a swing and a horse jiuchi on our drills page: sbbeat.online/drills.)
Jiuchi practice is a “taiko vegetable” (thanks to Sue and Linda for the term!). Less flashy, but critical to healthy growth as a taiko player. Let me know if you try it, and happy teaching!