I’m running a taiko (Japanese drum) workshop focused on women’s well-being at Stoer hall in Assynt, in the North West Highlands, on Sunday 12th July 2026. Details are below.
What is taiko?
Taiko — Japanese drums — are large, beautiful, resonant drums which are played standing, with large drumsticks. The movement is choreographed so there’s a strong visual element to playing, making it like a combination of music and dance.
Playing taiko is energetic, exhilarating and great fun. In this workshop we’ll focus on becoming familiar with the basics of playing taiko and playing in a way that feels natural and comfortable. Playing a big drum is naturally empowering, and we’ll also explore channelling and sharing your energy to maximum effect.
No musical or dance experience is required. The workshop will involve being on your feet for the best part of two hours so that basic level of mobility is required. If you’re not sure about your physical capacity for this, please contact me to discuss it.
Here’s a wee introductory video about taiko featuring my band in Glasgow (but don’t worry — in this workshop we’ll be keeping it simple and playing upright, not sideways, and only on one drum at a time…)
Workshop details
Time and date: 2—4 pm, Sunday 12th July
Location: Rhu Stoer village hall, Assynt — on the B869, just north of Stoer, opposite the turn-off for Balchladich and Achnacarnin — parking is available beside the hall — map below
Cost: £25 per person — places limited to six people — advance booking essential as the workshop won’t go ahead without enough folk [update: five places left]
You can book using the Paypal button below or contact me to arrange payment by another method.
Please note, if you cancel within two weeks of the date, I will only be able to provide a refund if I’m able to fill your place.
If you can’t make the date or can’t get a place, feel free to contact me to register your interest in taking part in future taiko events (which won’t all be just for women—men are welcome!).
Contact
Email alison@taiko.scot with any questions or to arrange a phone call. I’m not on social media.
I’ve been performing and teaching taiko for over 26 years and love introducing it to people who haven’t tried it before. You can find out more about my taiko teaching here.
When you come
- Wear/bring comfortable clothing which allows you a full range of movement
- Wear/bring flat-soled, comfortable footwear
- You may want to bring a bottle of water/juice to keep yourself hydrated
- You might also want to bring ear plugs — I expect the noise levels in Stoer hall will be fine, however, Japanese drums are not quiet instruments — I’ll have a supply of foam ear plugs but, if you have your own, bring those just in case
Any questions, get in touch 🙂