​We are thrilled to announce that Akira Sakaue and Masa Miyano will be our lead instructors for the fourth Taiko Gasshuku Alba. It's a massive honour and privilege for us to be hosting them, and we can't thank them enough for accepting the invitation to lead the intensive..

 

If you've taken a workshop or experienced a performance by either, you'll appreciate the depth of knowledge and vibrant energy both men posses. The Gasshuku presents a fantastic opportunity for intermediate to advanced players to deepen their knowledge and understanding of Taiko, improve their skills, and absorb the teachings and philosophies of two world-class artists and educators.​​​

 

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTORS
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Akira Sakaue’s fascination with Japanese drums began at the age of ten, when he first experienced the powerful and impressive sound of the taiko. He began studying taiko at a young age, and in 1995 became a member of the former Japanese dance and percussion group Dadadadan Tenko, with which he performed extensively around the world. Throughout his career, Akira has given more than 1,500 performances in over 30 countries across Europe, the Middle East, Russia and Asia. In addition to performing, he is also active as a composer, creating original music for taiko.

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In 2021, Akira formed the Japanese traditional instrument duo Otonoha. He has since developed a wide range of projects with artists from different countries and musical backgrounds, continually exploring the creative possibilities of the taiko. Akira is also a member of the Netherlands-based organisation and production company Tentekomai, through which he continues to introduce and promote Japanese traditional instruments and music throughout Europe.

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Masa Miyano began his taiko journey in 2008 with UC Irvine's Jodaiko, where he discovered a passion for the art form. After college, he deepened his practice with Prota and UnitOne, expanding his musical and artistic range. He has appeared in concerts such as UnitOne’s SHIKI and Asano Taiko U.S. 's EXTASIA, as well as collaborations with MIYAVI and Netflix’s Blue Eye Samurai reception.

 

Now based in Torrance, California, Masa serves as Principal of the Los Angeles Taiko Institute ("LATI") and full-time staff at Asano Taiko U.S., where he teaches and mentors students of all ages. Masa’s approach to taiko, rooted in the improvisational style of Hachijo Daiko, encourages students to seek individuality and instinct, approaching taiko not only as performance but as a lifelong practice of listening, feeling, and growth.