Educational Programs

Exploring and experiencing creative expression in the form of taiko enriches our lives and communities in important ways. It helps us grow and find personal fulfillment, teaches and challenges us, and helps us understand and empathize with others.

SJT conducts assemblies for all grade levels to educate children and teachers about the history of taiko and its links to Japan and to the local Japanese American communities. The 45 minute school program presents SJT's basic philosophical principles and engages the students to actively participate in its high-action demonstration. 

Teaching Taiko

SJT dedicates its calendar to play to schools in the Bay Area and school residency programs throughout the U.S., in total reaching over 20,000 students across the nation. The company is deeply committed to share the art of taiko to children and to communicate the importance of the arts in our lives.

Our school outreach program seeks to celebrate America's cultural diversity by sharing the art of taiko through performance and educational programs. The Elementary School Program features three performers, explanations of the history and philosophy of the artform as well as student participation on the drums! The Middle/High School Program is geared toward older audiences with an emphasis on exciting high energy performances and more in depth historical and philosophical explanations. 

NOTES FOR ASSEMBLY ORGANIZERS: Each assembly performance is 45 minutes. A travel fee will be added for those schools beyond the Santa Clara County area.  For schools outside of the Bay Area, availability and fees will depend on San Jose Taiko's touring schedule. Recommending booking at least 3 months in advance, especially for performances in March-June. Subsidies for your school district may be available, please inquire.

Requirements: An indoor performance area of at least 20’ wide and 16’ deep that is flat, safe and clear of obstructions. (SJT no longer performs outdoors.) 30 minutes to set up prior to start of the performance. Please allow 10-30 minutes in between performances.

Currently booking for the 2024-25 school year