Return to main audition page>>

Frequently Asked Questions about our auditions:

How can I prepare for these auditions?
There's no need to prepare as we want to see how you naturally learn, move, and perform on the spot. The point is to relax, have fun, and give us your best sweat!

What is the format of the auditions?
Auditioners will first go through a brief orientation on the company as well as fill out some required paperwork. Groups of 8 will go to our rehearsal studio where they will participate in various rhythm and movement exercises. This portion of the audition will take no longer than one hour. Please allot 1.5 hours total for the audition. You will be contacted within the week if you are accepted.

I make the cut - what happens now?
If you succeed in the open auditions you will be given an official invitation to join our training program. This is a one year process that gives you the basic tools necessary to learn San Jose Taiko's style of taiko. In that one year there are three phases in which evaluations will be made determining whether or not you have the aptitude to continue with the training program. If you succeed in making it through our one year training program you become an apprentice and are eligible to begin performing with the group in public festivals and concerts.

What is the time commitment to be in the performing company?
This is usually the determining factor for many candidates. The company regularly holds rehearsals Tuesdays, Thursdays, and occasional Fridays for 2.5 hours. The majority of our performing members are dedicated and passionate people who hold jobs during the day and make time to rehearse, perform, and support the group.

Why do people join San Jose Taiko?
Here are some reasons people have joined our company:
- to get in touch with their Japanese-American culture.
- seen us perform in public and it looked like so much fun.
- to be a part of the San Jose Japantown cultural community.
- to be a part of a world-class performing arts ensemble.

Can I do taiko as a career?
Yes it is possible to make a living playing taiko. This ever-evolving art form is continually growing in popularity, presenting opportunities for the company to perform and share with people around the world. San Jose Taiko supports a full time staff of four employees. Duties as a staff member are currently both administrative and artistic. We are a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization with all the responsibilities similar to that of a small business. Our plans are to expand our staff size in the next five years.

Return to main audition page>>

.