The Institute's LATIdama system uses beads to represent particular taiko skills tested at the completion of several courses. Last term, eight players earned their beads! LATIdama will be presented in each student's next class with the LATIdama Presentation Ceremony. These players are now qualified to take courses with their LATIdama prerequisite, and to mentor others trying to earn their LATIdama. Fun fun!
- Janelle, Asano's first intern and LATI's first full-time student, is now also the first person to earn a LATIdama! Janelle has earned the "Naname Essentials" and "Small Drum Essentials" LATIdama. Congratulations, Janelle!
- Doreen has earned the "Naname Essentials" LATIdama, through the Matsuri Crashers Essentials course, private lessons, and extensive personal practice. Fantastic work, Doreen!
- Julia, Asano Taiko US office manager, reveals her substantial taiko skills by earning both the "Beta Essentials" and "Small Drum Essentials" LATIdama! Here's hoping she's a regular in the Rock Solids crew!
- Aki has earned his "Naname Essentials" (and has a new 110 solo I'm begging him to show us at the next Matsuri Crashers battle!
- Jen, on the LATI coaching staff, has earned the "Naname Essentials" LATIdama. LATI's first coach to get a bead!
- Yuta, LATI's Principal, has earned the "Small Drum Essentials" LATIdama while taking the Rock Solids course. Way to go, Yuta!
- Ayano, through the LATI Renshuu course last term (and her many years of taiko experience in college) has earned the "Beta Essentials" LATIdama!
- Diana, dedicated student of a variety of forms here at LATI, has earned the "Beta Essentials" LATIdama. Great work and dedication, Diana!
Congratulations to all these students for all their practice!