About LATI
Los Angeles Taiko Institute (LATI) is a dedicated taiko school offering ongoing courses, multi-day intensives, and one-time workshops on a variety of Japanese drum topics. From the dance-like movements of "naname" style (slant-drum) to the fast drumming techniques of the high-pitched tsukeshime-daiko, LATI teaches a wide spectrum of the art of taiko. Incorporating professional, tour-tested repertoire, LATI students learn powerful music from accomplished, enthusiastic artists. LATI is housed at the brand-new Asano Taiko U.S. facility in Torrance CA.
World-Class Taiko Courses, Intensives, and Workshops
LATI offers ongoing 12-week courses, multi-day intensives, and one-time workshops to players of all experience levels. LATI courses offer southern California players the opportunity for year-round taiko study on a wide range of taiko skills. LATI Intensives feature in-house and guest teachers for multi-day, concentrated instruction. LATI Workshops are one-time classes offered periodically throughout the year, usually taught by guest lecturers.
LATI teachers are some of the world's most respected taiko teachers. As professional performers and composers with a wealth of teaching experience, LATI staff provide challenging, fun, and effective instruction. Innovators within the art form, LATI teachers provide the opportunity to learn advanced techniques, concepts, and music directly from the creators themselves.
LATI curriculum is designed to prepare students for the taiko world's most advanced ensemble music. LATI repertoire includes the dramatic naname (slant-style) choreography of Jack Bazaar, the interlocking small-drum rhythms of Watashi Watashitachi, and the graceful form and flow of Hachijo-style improvisation. Compositions are utilized in LATI annual events, teacher projects, and regular recitals, giving students (and teachers) exciting opportunities to perform.
World-Class Facility and Instruments
Housed at the brand-new Asano Taiko U.S. (external site) facility in Torrance CA, LATI courses are conducted in two professionally sound-proofed classrooms, with custom-made sound-dampening walls and full-width mirrors. LATI students have the benefit of learning and practicing on exceptional Asano Taiko instruments.