Break free from the usual expectations of Odaiko drumming in this workshop that centers experimentation, creative risk-taking, and full-body expression. Instead of focusing on power and intensity, we’ll explore how softness, fluidity, and improvisation can unlock new ways of connecting with the drum—and with each other. Anchored by Gliding Dreams, an autobiographical trio piece blending drumming, singing, and movement, this session invites you to challenge conventional forms through structured play. You’ll explore the drum’s expressive possibilities using guided movement, rhythm games, and collaborative improvisation. Along the way, we’ll investigate how emotion, imagery, and intention can shape your performance in unexpected ways. Open to all levels, this workshop is a space to experiment boldly, listen deeply, and stretch the boundaries of your Odaiko practice. Come ready to move, explore, and rediscover the drum as a living, responsive partner in creative expression.
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Workshop 1—Odaiko Reimagined: Exploring Movement and Expression through Improvisation
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Workshop 2—Kane: Technique, Interlocking Rhythms, Movement
We will learn the basics on how to play the atarigane for the first half of the workshop. For the second half, we will explore interlocking rhythms and movement with the atarigane.
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Workshop 3—Yamamba: Wandering Mountain Spirit – empowering the inner you
Description: Empowering the inner you – Sometimes it may be easier to release your inner self when hidden behind a mask. In this workshop, participants will craft simple masks to wear while drumming, using them as a tool for self-expression and transformation. Through guided movement and rhythm, we’ll explore ways to awaken the body, unlock creativity, and connect with the spirit within. Channeling the energy of ancient mountain spirits rising from the earth, we’ll drum, move, and express ourselves freely and powerfully.
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Your Schedule
View more detailed information and schedule in the attendee packet. Get specific information for your group by clicking your group below:
Group 1, Group 2, Group 3, Group 4, Group 5, Group 6, Group 7, Group 8, Group 9, Group 10, Group 11, Group 12, Group 13, Group 14, Group 15
Day Zero (Friday, May 23):
4:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Equipment Load-In, if applicable (Dinkelspiel Auditorium)
Day One (Saturday, May 24):
7:30 am – 8:30 am: Check-In and Continental Breakfast @ Braun Patio
8:30 am – 9:30 am: Welcome and Plenary @ Campbell Rehearsal Hall (Braun Music Center)
9:30 am – 9:40 am: Sort into groups9:40 am – 10:00 am: Walk to first workshop
10:00 am – 12:00 pm: Workshop 1
- 10 minutes included for warm ups
12:00 pm – 1:30 pm: Lunch
- 12:05-1:25pm: Spiking for most of the teams for Collegiate Concert @ Dinkelspiel Auditorium
1:30 pm – 2:00 pm: Walk to second workshop
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm: Workshop 2
4:00 pm – 5:00 pm: Taiko Tabling @ Braun Patio
5:00 pm – 6:30 pm: Dinner
- Finale Practice: 5:45 – 6:15 pm
6:30 pm – 8:00 pm: Instructor Showcase
Day Two (Sunday, May 25):
7:30 am – 8:30 am: Breakfast, announcements @ Braun Patio
8:30 am – 9:00 am: Hachimaki exchange + pictures
9:00 am – 9:30 am: Walk to Workshop 3
9:30 am – 11:30 am: Workshop 3 + warm-ups
11:30 am – 1:00 pm: Lunch
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm: Thematic Sessions
- Breadth: 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
- Experimentation: 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
- Collaboration: 1:00pm – 2:00 pm
2:30 pm – 4:00 pm: Concert Prep + snacks
- 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm ITC Meeting @ Braun 102
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm: Collegiate Concert
- 3:30 pm concert doors open
6:00 pm – 6:30 pm: Final Announcements + Photos
6:30 pm – 7:30 pm: Equipment Return