Who is Teresa Brookes?
Born into a farming background, Teresa grew up in Scotland and had an interest in the theatrical arts from an early age.
She embarked on her Taiko career with Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers, becoming one of the lead players within the group, adding her musicality and charismatic stage presence to the performances, in addition to teaching within the Dojo.
After a break, she then went on to start her solo project "PlayTaiko".
Teresa believes in the accessibility and positivity of Taiko.
As part of a group and as a solo performer, Teresa has toured the length and breadth of the UK and played in Japan, Qatar, Germany and Italy amongst others, spreading the Taiko experience.
What is PlayTaiko?
Rhythm Energy Form Focus
PlayTaiko was founded by Teresa as a concept which enabled her to share her knowledge, skills and joy of Taiko Drumming. PlayTaiko had to be mobile and versatile, with the ability to adapt to and enhance any situation.
Under the PlayTaiko banner, Teresa has taken Taiko to the tops of mountains, lake-sides, theatres, class rooms and town squares. Through attentive study of the art and with both traditional and modern pieces specifically arranged to be performed by a solo player, Teresa conveys the power, skill and intensity of the Taiko experience. As well as solo performances, PlayTaiko also offers small group performances and talks.
Also drawing on Teresa’s experience of teaching Taiko for over 20 years, PlayTaiko has the opportunity to offer workshops and classes to people of all ages and abilities.
What is Taiko Drumming?
Wadaiko - The way of the Japanese Drum.
Taiko means drum in Japanese but it is much more. Born as a folk art linked closely with Buddhist and Shinto religions, there are a huge variety of styles of playing the Taiko drums. This is in a large part due to the fact that it didn't stem from one central source but from many diverse regions. This astoundingly rich heritage has provided Taiko drumming with a vast pallet of expression and authenticity. Other instruments also compliment the power of the Taiko. The shinobue (bamboo flute), the chappa (hand cymbals) amongst others can be heard weaving through the Taiko sound.
Taiko is played in temples and shrines, at festivals and celebrations but more recently, Taiko has spread around the world as an art form in its own right, being performed by groups ranging from solo artists to teams of greater number.
Taiko is accessible and invigorating and brings with it enjoyment, attentiveness and focus, whilst conjuring a rich tapestry of rhythm, melody and movement to be enjoyed by all.