Introduction to Yoko Uchi

With Shogo Yoshii

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In this introductory course, Shogo Yoshii teaches the basics of Yoko Uchi from how the body is used and its relation to the traditional Japanese culture, to the history of Hachijo.  Using phrases and grooves from Hachijo Taiko, Shogo explores each components in detail. By the end of the course you will have learned many phrases, long enough to play as a song when put together!

Featured Instruments:

Bachi:

Course Resources Include:

  • Intro to Yoko Uchi Course PDF

Course Resources

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Course Lessons

Lesson 1 – Introduction and Basic Strike

Introduction to basic yoko uchi strikes explained through the somesthesis that developed over the course of history in Japan and...

Lesson 2 – Japanese Intonation and Taiko

Shogo explores examples of Japanese intonation and how it can be translated into taiko playing.

Lesson 3 – Hachijo Rhythms

What was taught in Lessons 1 and 2 are put into action by using the phrases from Hachijo Taiko. History...

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Lesson 4 – Atama-uchi and Ura-uchi

In this lesson, Shogo introduces the concept of Atama-uchi (downbeat) and Ura-uchi (upbeat) by using the phrases learned in Lesson...

Lesson 5 – Atama-uchi and Ura-uchi Variations

Shogo introduces more variations appropriate to the downbeat (Atama-uchi) and the upbeat (Ura-uchi) while exploring the Dondoko basebeat (Shitabyoshi) in...

Lesson 6 – Fuchi Phrases

Variety of fuchi (rim) rhythms and phrases are introduced in Lesson 6. Everything is combined together at the end as...

Lesson 7 – Building Up the Tempo + Tobasute

In Lesson 7, you will learn techniques on how to build up the tempo on fuchi, as well as incorporating...

Lesson 8 – Understanding the Shitabyoshi

We turn our focus onto the base beat (Shitabyoshi) in this lesson including which side of the drum to use,...

Lesson 9 – Shitabyoshi Variation: Honbataki and Shabataki

In this lesson Shogo introduces two variations of Shitabyoshi from Hachijo Taiko: Honbataki and Shabataki, and how the base beat...

Lesson 10 – Different Approach to Yoko Uchi and Improvisation Basics

Shogo shares different approaches to playing the Yoko Uchi style including how to handle the bachi. Useful tools to improve...