TAIKO DRUMMING Named after the Japanese word for fireworks, the Hanabi Taiko Drumming Club gives students a place to celebrate their inner power. Taiko Drumming at St Hilda’s began in Term 1, 2021 with a group of Year 5 and 6 students. They have performed at the Christmas pageant, assemblies, community events and ceremonies. Gaining traction, the program has now developed into two levels: Beginners (Years 4-6) and Intermediate (Years 6-8).
“As a teacher, it feels like I’ve been given a special gift, to create a unique curriculum to develop student’s voice and confidence” co-ordinator Mary Giles says.
The groups were developed to give each student a voice on their drum, learn leadership skills and feel a sense of belonging to a community. At various events throughout the year, such as the Junior School Mother’s Day Breakfast, workshops are run for parents to be involved and try out drumming for themselves. We look forward to extending this invite to the wider community at the Junior School Open Day on Sunday September 18. As the only private school in Western Australia to offer Taiko Drumming, students have had the opportunity to perform with Perth’s Premier Taiko Group, Taiko-On Perth and to fine-tune their Taiko skills with leading Taiko Master, Simon Vanyai in workshops. The Hanabi Taiko Drummers aim to spark joy and energy whenever they perform. Listen and look out for their performances as the year progresses.
Group drumming requires superb teamwork, individual responsibility and an understanding of the power of the group. Drumming lifts the girls’ energy and empowers them to create music that stirs the spirit.
21 AMMONITE
Group drumming requires superb teamwork, individual responsibility and an understanding of the power of the group. Drumming lifts the girls’ energy and empowers them to create music that stirs the spirit.
“To energise and enthuse students to try new things with passion gives me great joy.”
