“Kansha”, the Japanese word for “Gratitude” or “Thanksgiving”, is also the name of the first composition Taiko Charleston students learn. A fundamental introduction to all things Taiko – it introduces “kata” – how to hold one’s body for grace and power, kuchishoge – the chanting of rhythms and how to play as an ensemble.

 “Kansha”, the expression of gratitude also seems like the most heartfelt place to begin sharing on our new “News and Events Page”.  Upcoming performances and events as well as Taiko Charleston News will be posted here.

Without very generous assistance from students and friends, Taiko Charleston could not have grown as it has in the last 2 years.  I am tremendously grateful to Virginia and Kumi.  Gifted and conscientious – they are always there to help. Virginia is the Tire drum making Sensei extraordinaire, is developing our new uniforms, assists with too many workshops to count, and is always there to give input and make me laugh. Kumi was my assistant all week for our first taiko Camp for children last summer. and is always there when I need her.   They both are  administrators for the public and student Facebook pages for the group.

Other people I wish to thank are Muriel (now home in the Netherlands) the designer of our beautiful new logo and marketing materials, Kaoru and Yoshi for the 20 beautiful Taiko T-shirts provided to the group last Spring as a gift and for always helping to maintain the equipment, maura for the beautiful tapered bachi that her father made, Renee for always seeing a need and filling it, Kat for all her help and seeking out new sources for equipment, Eiko for her diligent scrutiny of music which keeps me on my toes, Miyako for help in all ways, Deborah for her extraordinary photos of the group, Steven, my husband, for helping to design the new website and always being of help, and, finally, Bobby who is not a student but donated considerable time and talent to getting our new website up and running.

I’m grateful to all my other students, as well, for help, enthusiasm and good cheer during class and performances.  I’m looking forward to another great year together!