Taiko Drum Craft

STREAM Activity: Taiko Drum Activity

Make Some Noise for AAPI Heritage Month!

Activity best for children ages four and up

Did you know that music was once used in battles? In Japan, “taiko” means “drum” and also refers to the “art of Japanese drumming.” These powerful leather drums were used long ago to send signals in battle, calling soldiers to action with their deep, booming sounds. However, taiko wasn’t just used for war, they’ve also been a part of Japanese culture for centuries! They are often played in festivals and ceremonies, accompanied by strong chants and choreographed movements. Choreography is a type of practiced dance that many people can follow together, making taiko not just about sound, but also about energy and storytelling.

Japan, a country in Asia with over 123 million people, is just one of the many countries we celebrate during Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month! Every May, we recognize the contributions of AAPI communities to art, history, and culture. At the museum, we’ll be celebrating all month long with books and characters that highlight AAPI stories. And to honor the tradition of taiko, we’ll be creating our own drums! Get ready to find your rhythm and make music with a special meaning behind it!

VOCABULARY

  • Taiko: A traditional Japanese drum and the art form of Japanese drumming.

  • Culture: The art, music, food, and traditions that make a group of people unique.

  • Choreography: A practiced dance or movement routine that many people can follow.

GUIDING QUESTION

  • What are some special celebrations or traditions you have in your family?

  • Can you create a rhythm on your drum? What happens when you tap fast or slow?

  • Why do you think it’s important to celebrate other cultures like Japan and taiko?

MATERIALS

  • 2 paper cups

  • Balloon

  • Markers

  • Rubber band

  • Scissors

  • Glue

  • Decorative paper

DIRECTIONS

STEP 1

Stack your paper cups on top of each other to secure the base of the taiko.

Stack two cups together.

STEP 2

Hold your balloon and cut off the bottom half. Make sure to keep the top half.

Cut balloon in half.

STEP 3

Attach the top half of the balloon to the top of your paper cups. This can be the trickiest part! Make sure to stretch the balloon as wide as possible as you attach it to the cup.

Stretch balloon over the top of the cups

STEP 4

Secure the balloon with a rubber band. Once fastened, try out your taiko! You should be able to play some awesome rhythms.

Secure the balloon with a rubber band

STEP 5

Now for the fun part! You can decorate the taiko however you’d like. Using decorative paper, duck tape, and markers, you can make some pretty neat designs.

Decorate your drum with paper and markers