My name is Cecilia.

I’ve been a Taikokoro Rinjin member ever since it first started – not sure how long that’s been because I’m really bad at remembering stuff like that. Like when I’m asked how long I’ve been playing taiko – I wouldn’t have a clue! But I do remember how I started taking an interest in taiko.

I was first introduced to taiko through a work colleague who’d invited me to a taiko concert. The concert was none other than Eitetsu Hayashi at Sydney Town Hall. My mind was blown! So, I gave it try and never really stopped. I must admit that most of the credit goes to Taikoz and Ian Cleworth for creating a great place for me to learn and enjoy taiko.

There are many reasons why I enjoy taiko. I like taiko because I find taiko challenging and yet intriguing because there are so many different facets to taiko – it kind of pulls you in.  I don’t have a favorite style – I like them all. I continue to play taiko, though, because of the taiko community – I am grateful that I’ve been able to meet and play taiko with many people from across Australia and the globe. I’m thankful to Taikokoro for bringing the taiko community even closer together.

I recall participating in a taiko camp in Japan where I learnt a version of Miyake-style taiko and having to hold a pose for what felt like 2 hours (in reality, it might have been 2 minutes). At night, as the group sat in the rotenburo (females only) nursing our sore muscles and blistered hands, we all agreed that “we work to fund our taiko habits”.

So, what work do I do to help fund my taiko habits? I’m a Business Analyst, helping companies implement systems, policies… anything. But Taiko still infiltrates as I’m caught writing taiko music in my notebook during meetings or tapping taiko rhythms at my desk.

The best memory I have of taiko would be winning the World Taiko Competition in Tokyo as a member of Taiko No Wa. The blood, sweat and tears paid off… literally. To my TNW peeps – thanks for the unforgettable experience.

My fondest memory of Taiko, however, was attending an Art Lee taiko camp, meeting Daihachi Oguchi and other taiko players from around the world, spending Obon at the river watching fireflies; then to Sado for Earth Celebration where we had a private performance of Ondeko in a tent and received a lock of the Oni’s hair. Aah, the sweet memories of Sado in summer! Such is Taiko Life!

1. Would you rather have sushi or tacos for life?
   Sushi. There’s no elegant way of eating a taco.
2. What is your most embarrassing favorite song?
   Run, Rabbit, Run – (1939) – They don’t make music like they use to.
3. What is the dumbest way you’ve been injured?
   Breaking my ankle during Shot-Put trials for the Combined School Competition in High School. Needless to say, I did not make it into the Shot-Put team.