The kick-off was a potluck dinner in October 2003. Tiffany gave a great talk. Each member of the new group came up to the old drum and made three blows.

Classes began in January 2004. The drums were old tires set up on chairs. Then we started to make their own Odaiko drums. We now
have over 20 drums! Our largest drum stands over 6 feet tall on the high stand and takes two drummers to play.

Cathy and Ed note:

Through taiko we link together a cross-generational sangha that endeavors to preserve five generations of Japanese-American culture in Placer County.

Ume Taiko Dan creates an environment for families to come together to socialize and to discover their roots that reach far back to their links with Japan. Taiko, one of the world's oldest musical forms, still thrives today and connects us with our spiritual roots and with each other.

At the heart of our taiko group are PBC members of long standing and their families. The PBC members are vital to the success of Ume Taiko Dan. You are the fosters of our children, the builders of our dojo, the makers of our drums, and our link with our heritage. Thank you for all your encouragement.

For our Friends of Taiko, we do have lots of work: costumes, drum making, stage props, bachi work and fundraising, to name just a few jobs. Please come to any taiko session and enjoy the lively sounds and the enthusiasm of the Taiko Dan.