Only $50/month, cancel anytime
OPen House EVENT
August 1, 2025
We had a soft opening earlier this year but this is the official OPEN HOUSE for SKMD’s new dojo space in Vail, AZ! Come tour the studio, play on some drums, and enjoy light refreshments. Sensei Kristina will be there to answer questions about the 2025-2026 School Year schedule and also you will be able to sign up for lessons on the spot for a special treat. See you there!
RSVP below, or simply stay connected and join our contact list.
SKMD Dojo
6pm - 8pm
Vail, AZ
Wellness through Taiko & Dance
Music education has shown to be beneficial for brain development, physical dexterity, and can improve overall wellness and health. We hope our passion for taiko sparks a lifetime love of music in every SKMD student.
Cultural Appreciation
Every class is an opportunity to learn more about Japanese culture and traditions. SKMD also celebrates the heritage of our students and tries to incorporate that into the curriculum.
Age-level learning
Our classes are outlined to encourage musical achievement and growth at an age appropriate level, whether the students are age 5 or 95. This helps build confidence and competence for every taiko drummer.
Music, Art, & Performance for all Ages
SKMD has been teaching taiko, traditional Japanese drumming, and nihon buyo, traditional Japanese dancing, for over 40 years here in Southern Arizona. The age ranges we have taught over the years include students age 3 through their mid 90s. We are able to have such a robust student makeup because we believe in the core principles of inclusivity, adaptive teaching, and having fun.
Activities you can work on together
While our current course curriculum is designed to teach students within their age level, we do offer private lessons and family lessons as well so that the whole family can learn together. These types of activities can improve multigenerational communication, which means that everyone will get along better in class and outside of class.
Age-level classes will teach students about teamwork. After all, taiko must be played together to experience harmony. Students will be given chances to take on leadership tasks during practice and performances, and they will also have opportunities to follow instructions and be team players.
For school-age students (K-12), we will be offering a Fall and Spring recital where they can perform for their loved ones and the community. Adult learners may also be asked to perform for local events as those opportunities arise. Performances are amazing because both our students and their families help make them so - common ways to help include transportation of equipment (taiko drums are BIG), assistance with uniforms, and showing up to encourage our performers.
